NCJ Number
128603
Date Published
1990
Length
16 pages
Annotation
While the primary action of sedative-hypnotic drugs, of which the barbiturate is the most well-known and utilized, is to induce drowsiness and promote sleep, the prolonged misuse of these drugs leads to a physical dependence and a potentially life-threatening abstinence syndrome following abrupt withdrawal.
Abstract
Numerous studies have characterized the major manifestations associated with this abstinence syndrome in barbiturates, meprobamate, and other sedative-hypnotics. Key studies of abuse potential have included animal studies and human studies focusing on barbiturates, meprobomate, and methaqualone. These studies have highlighted the high abuse potential of barbiturates as well as the reinforcing properties of these drugs in both humans and animals. 1 table and 27 references