Illegal use of barbiturates

Illegal use of barbiturates can lead to many serious consequences, and these drugs should never be considered safe, unless prescribed and monitored closely by a physician. Tolerance can easily develop, and a small increase in dose can lead to intoxication or overdose. The withdrawal effects of barbiturate abuse, like other drugs, are very unpleasant and can cause abusers to continue abusing for fear of feeling worse than ever before if they were to stop. With the help of treatment centers and doctors, however, abusers can overcome the symptoms of withdrawal and stay on the road to addiction recovery. 

The depressant effect of barbiturates is often sought by persons who are self-medicating for amdety-related problems or insomnia. Drugs of the benzodiazepine family (Librium, Valium, and Xanax) are also legitimately prescribed for the treatment of anxiety as well as muscle spasms or convulsions. However, doctors and patients must be careful because prolonged or excessive use can lead to dependence. Illegal use often involves forged prescriptions or the cooperation of illicit doctors. 

In addition to their prescribed medical uses, many barbiturates have also found widespread illegal use as street drugs. Each barbiturate comes as a tablet of regulated size, shape, and color, and their street names often mimic those colors. Although still used today, most barbiturates have been replaced by safer, more potent alternatives with markedly different structures. 

Possession and supply illegal except by Home Office Licence Drugs of high abuse potential with medicinal use, opiates and major stimulants, for example amfetamines and cocaine Subject to full controlled drug requirements under the law Drugs of lesser abuse potential with medicinal use for example minor stimulants and barbiturates Subject to special prescription requirements, but not other requirements under the law Anabolic steroids and related hormones Most benzodiazepines and zolpidem Subject to minimal control requirements Sale and supply and possession without a prescription for personal use an offence... 

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