Millions of people in the United States use prescription drugs to manage medical and mental health conditions. Some prescription drugs have the potential for misuse, physical dependence, and addiction.
Barbiturates are a class of sedative prescription drugs. Medical professionals typically use barbiturates as an anesthetic. People may also use them to reduce the symptoms of insomnia or to manage seizure disorders.
While barbiturate use is less common now than in recent decades, some people take them and become addicted. People who take barbiturates, even under medical supervision, may develop an addiction to them.
This article will explore barbiturate addiction and what to expect during detox in San Antonio.
What you will learn:
- The risks of barbiturate abuse and addiction
- The symptoms of barbiturate withdrawal
- What to expect in a barbiturate detox program
- Where to find a barbiturate detox in San Antonio, Texas
If you or someone you love struggles with barbiturate abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find comprehensive treatment and recovery support at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn more about our Texas treatment programs or to schedule your first appointment.
What are Barbiturates?
Barbiturates are a class of prescription drugs. They are sedative-hypnotics. This type of drug works by reducing activity in the central nervous system (CNS).
Examples of barbiturate drugs include:
- Secobarbital (Seconal)
- Pentobarbital Sodium (Nembutal)
- Thiopental Sodium (Pentothal)
- Phenobarbital (Seconal)
- Butalbital (Fiorinal)
- Amobarbital (Amytal)
People who abuse barbiturates may use slang terms for these drugs. Common slang terms for barbiturates include:
- Barbs
- Blues
- Reds
- Goof balls
- Pinks
Barbiturate use has decreased in recent decades because they have an elevated risk of addiction. Doctors typically prescribe these drugs only for short-term use because of this risk.
Understanding the Risks of Barbiturate Abuse and Addiction
Barbiturates reduce CNS activity and may help to manage anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. In addition to these intended effects, people may experience other side effects, including euphoria and lowered inhibitions.
These pleasurable side effects may make people want to use them differently than prescribed. This may include:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Taking doses more often than prescribed
- Taking them for longer periods than prescribed
- Taking them recreationally (without a prescription)
Misusing barbiturates may cause unwanted or dangerous side effects, including:
- Slow heart rate
- Low body temperature
- Muscle weakness
- Slurred speech
- Vertigo
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea
- Shallow or slow breathing
- Weak pulse
- Loss of balance and coordination
Mixing barbiturates with other substances that slow CNS activity, such as opioids or alcohol, increases the risk of dangerous side effects. It may also increase the risk of an overdose.
- Signs of a barbiturate overdose include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Coma
- Slow or slurred speech
- Sluggish movements, thinking, and speech
An overdose is a life-threatening medical emergency. Call 911 if you or someone near you exhibits symptoms of an overdose.
It can be very challenging to overcome addiction to barbiturates. Most people require addiction treatment throughout the detox process and beyond. Comprehensive care can help those struggling with addiction begin their journey to recovery.
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about Alamo Behavioral Health’s holistic approach to substance abuse treatment or to schedule an intake appointment.
Symptoms of Barbiturate Withdrawal
People who develop barbiturate addiction may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking these drugs. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Vision problems
- Fainting
- Seizures
- Aggression
- Hallucinations
- Dizzoness
- Muscle twitching
- Vomiting
- Hallucinations
Medical detox centers offer personalized care to ensure safety during detox. Many recovery centers offer different levels of care to meet a wide range of needs.
Alamo Behavioral Health offers programs using evidence-based and holistic therapies. Our whole-person approach to detox support can help people work toward long-term sobriety. If you or a loved one requires a drug or alcohol detox in San Antonio, contact Alamo Behavioral Health today.
What Happens in a Barbiturate Detox Program in San Antonio?
A barbiturate detox program provides comprehensive care, allowing people to address the complex roots of their substance use. Medical and mental health professionals offer tailored treatment plans that may include:
- Assessments, diagnostic testing, and other screenings
- Round-the-clock supervision and support
- Medical treatment
- Medications to manage barbiturate withdrawal symptoms
- Emotional and mental health support, including individual and group counseling
- Education about addiction and recovery
- Holistic therapies, such as yoga, mindfulness, acupuncture, and nutrition support
When it comes to barbiturate detox, individuals are often slowly tapered off the drug they are addicted to. A doctor will assess their current dose and create a tapering plan that gradually reduces the amount of the drug that is taken. This can help avoid potentially fatal withdrawal symptoms as well as discomfort.
These therapies can help people understand and overcome the physical, behavioral, and psychological aspects of their barbiturate use. After completing detox, people can transition into comprehensive treatment programs to receive continuing care and support.
Find a Barbiturate Detox Program in San Antonio
Barbiturate abuse can quickly spiral into a life-threatening addiction. It is critical to recognize the signs of barbiturate abuse and seek treatment as soon as possible.
Alamo Behavioral Health offers comprehensive barbiturate detox and treatment programs in San Antonio, Texas. If you or someone you love struggles with barbiturate abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find treatment and support by reaching out to our intake team today.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Barbiturates
- Science Direct: Barbiturate
- Springer Nature Link: Barbiturate Withdrawal
- American Association for the Advancement of Science: Absence of REM Rebound after Barbiturate Withdrawal
