Barbiturates also known as Barbs, are a class of central nervous system (CNS) depressant drugs that were once widely prescribed for various conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. However, due to their high risk of dependence and overdose, barbiturates are now only used in very limited situations.

Despite their restricted use, barbiturates are still commonly abused and illegally used in the United States. Individuals misuse barbiturates to achieve mild euphoria, induce sleep, reduce anxiety, decrease inhibitions, or alleviate the unwanted effects of other illicit drugs.

According to NIDA, barbiturates are considered to be highly addictive, and individuals can build up a tolerance for them and become dependent on them. Misuse of barbiturates can often lead to abuse and possibly addiction, especially when combined with polydrug use. Polydrug use is common with barbiturates, with alcohol, cocaine, and heroin being commonly used in conjunction with barbiturates, resulting in a more complicated and integrated treatment process for recovery for those exposed to polydrug use.

Barbiturates Abuse

Barbiturates are highly addictive, with tolerance developing rapidly, sometimes after just one dose. This leads to a cycle of dependence and abuse, with individuals needing to take increasingly larger amounts to achieve the desired effects. These drugs can be taken orally, snorted, or injected intravenously.

However, barbiturates are extremely dangerous, as it’s difficult to predict the correct dosage and even a slight overdose can result in coma or death. Additionally, barbiturates can cause a potentially life-threatening withdrawal syndrome.

Barbiturate abuse frequently co-occurs with the abuse of other substances, particularly amphetamines such as cocaine and methamphetamines. Suspected cases of barbiturate abuse should take into consideration the potential for co-occurring substance use disorders. Many individuals who abuse barbiturates use them to alleviate symptoms of other drug use.

The Effects and Symptoms of Barbiturate Abuse

Mood symptoms

Euphoria
Pleasure
Relaxation
Feeling high
Inability to think clearly
Overall feeling of well-being
Intense relaxation
Irritability
Agitation
Mood swings

Behavioral Symptoms

Slurred, jumbled speech patterns
Poor concentration
Behaving as though intoxicated
Poor interpersonal skills
Loss of normal inhibitions
Behaving recklessly
Acting out in a violent manner
Speaking very slowly
Behaving in an uncharacteristically bold manner
Inability to fulfill important obligations at school, work, or at home

Physical Symptoms

Physical dependence
Withdrawal symptoms
Intense feelings of drowsiness
Decreased blood pressure
Dizziness
Inability to stay awake
Loss of coordination of the muscles
Staggering
High fever
Cardiovascular shock
Frequent infections of the respiratory tract
Breathing shallowly
Hard to breathe
Seizures
Kidney dysfunction
Respiratory arrest
Coma
Death

Psychological Symptoms

Addiction
Marked confusion
Delirium
Extreme confusion
Disorientation
Hallucinations
Paranoia
Combativeness
Wanting to hurt other people
Changes in thought processes
Memory loss

Barbiturates Overdose

Barbiturates have an extremely high potential for overdose. This is because the dosage required for barbiturates to achieve their effects varies widely among users, making it difficult to predict the correct dosage. One milligram may be optimal for some to achieve feelings of drowsiness, while in others, it can be poisonous. As a result, taking even a slightly higher dose can cause severe respiratory depression, which can be fatal.

The risk of barbiturate overdose increases greatly when they are mixed with other CNS depressants, such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids. These substances cause profound respiratory depression, which can lead to coma and death.

Studies have shown that about 1 in 10 individuals who overdose on barbiturates or a mixture containing barbiturates will die, usually as a result of heart and lung complications.

This is why it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a barbiturate overdose or if you or someone you know is struggling with barbiturate addiction.

Symptoms of barbiturate overdose

Shallow breathing
Clammy skin
Dilated pupils
Weak and rapid pulse
Respiratory failure
Coma

Being aware of the signs of a barbiturate overdose is crucial, as many of these symptoms can be noticeable and prompt medical attention can be the key to saving a person’s life.

Barbiturate Withdrawal

Within 24 hours after cessation or tapering off (Early Withdrawal)

Physical Effects
Insomnia, tremors, seizures, nausea, vomiting, and fever

Emotional Effects
Anxiety, irritability, restlessness, and depression

First 72 Hours (Acute Withdrawal)

Physical Effects
Hallucinations, seizures, delirium, and increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Emotional
Agitation, mood swings, and confusion

Within First Week (Subacute Withdrawal)

Physical

Headaches, muscle pain, and fatigue
Emotional

Anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating

Week 5+ Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

Physical
Depression, anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances

Emotional
Impaired cognitive function, memory problems, and decreased coordination during stressful situations

It is important to note that the timeline and severity of withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person. Seeking medically managed withdrawal with the use of medications can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.

How long do barbiturates stay in your system?

Barbiturates are available in different formulations that can influence the duration of their side effects and how long they stay in the body. The four types of barbiturates are ultra-short acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting. Short-acting and intermediate-acting barbiturates can be detected in urine for a minimum of 24 to 72 hours after ingestion, whereas longer-acting barbiturates can be detected for at least seven days.

Is it safe to quit barbiturates Cold Turkey?

It is not safe to quit barbiturates cold turkey or without medical supervision. Barbiturate withdrawals can be life-threatening and can cause severe medical complications that require immediate intervention. Sudden cessation can also result in extreme mood swings and agitation, posing a risk of harm to the individual and others.

What are street names of Barbiturates?

Barbiturates	Street Slang Names
Amobarbital	Downers, blue heavens, blue velvet, blue devils
Pentobarbital	Nembies, yellow jackets, abbots, Mexican yellows
Phenobarbital	Purple hearts, goof balls
Secobarbital	Reds, red birds, red devils, lilly, f-40s (f40s), pinks, pink ladies, seggy
Tuinal	Rainbows, reds and blues, tooies, double trouble, gorilla pills, f-66s

What to expect during medical detox for Barbiturates?

During medical detox for barbiturate addiction at Still Detox, patients can expect to be closely monitored by experienced medical professionals to ensure their safety. This includes managing symptoms of withdrawal, such as body temperature spikes and respiratory issues, which can be dangerous if not properly addressed.

Our patients are placed in a controlled and serene environment, with access to trained medical staff available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance in case of any complications. Additionally, patients can expect to receive personalized care and support throughout the detox process, including medication management, therapy, and holistic treatments to address physical, emotional, and psychological needs.

Barbiturates Addiction Treatment Boca Raton, Florida

At Still Detox, we understand that a medical detox is essential for anyone seeking treatment for barbiturate addiction. Our team of medical professionals provides compassionate care to keep our clients safe and comfortable during the withdrawal process, which can include administering appropriate treatments to manage symptoms.

Along with medical detox, our barbiturate rehabilitation program takes into account the unique needs of individuals struggling with barbiturate addiction. We recognize that barbiturates are often abused along with other substances and that co-occurring mental health conditions can complicate treatment. Our inpatient barbiturate rehab program provides intensive addiction treatment, including a variety of therapies, to ensure that our clients receive the care and support they need to achieve lasting recovery.

We offer aftercare planning and follow-up support to help our clients maintain their recovery and build a fulfilling life free from addiction. At Still Detox, we are committed to helping those struggling with barbiturate addiction find the path to recovery.

Barbiturates Addiction Treatment Florida

Table of Contents