What is central nervous system depression?
Central nervous system — or CNS — depression happens when the body's normal neurological functions slow down. It can result from substance overdoses, poisoning, or other medical conditions. Depression of the central nervous system or CNS often occurs when a person misuses a substance that slows brain activity.
Is Xanax a central nervous system depressant?
Xanax is a prescription central nervous system (CNS) depressant. CNS depressants include sedatives, tranquilizers, and hypnotics that slow brain activity. They are prescribed to treat anxiety, panic, acute stress reactions, and sleep disorders.
Which substance is a central nervous system depressant quizlet?
Depressants: Drugs that decrease alertness by slowing down the activity of the central nervous system (e.g. heroin, alcohol and analgesics).
Is alcohol a central nervous system depressants?
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. This means that it is a drug that slows down brain activity. It can change your mood, behavior, and self-control. It can cause problems with memory and thinking clearly.
How do central nervous system depressants work?
Every year, opioid overdose takes the lives of tens of thousands of Americans. Central nervous system depressants work by increasing the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, which in turn slows down brain activity and produces feelings of relaxation, drowsiness, and a number of other effects, including:
What is central nervous system (CNS) depression?
Understanding Central Nervous System (CNS) Depression: Symptoms, Treatment, and More. Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, MD on October 31, 2016 — Written by Ann Pietrangelo. The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and the spinal cord. The brain is command central. It orders your lungs to breathe and your heart to beat.
What are the different types of CNS depressants?
There are three major types of CNS depressants: sedatives, hypnotics, and tranquilizers. Drugs that are classified as CNS depressants include: Different classes of CNS depressants work in different ways, but all have the ability to reduce activity in the central nervous system and lower levels of awareness in the brain.