Barbiturates are sedative hypnotic drugs used primarily to treat seizures or mild anxiety. Currently, there are about 12 different barbiturates being used medically in the United States, all of which require a prescription.
Brand or Common Names:
Amytal, Seconal, Amobarbital, Phenobarbital, Butisol, Pentobarbital, Butalbital, Secobarbital, Tuinal
Slang Terms:
Yellow, Yellow Jackets, Barbs, Reds, Red Birds, Tooies, Phennies
Medical Uses:
Anti-Convulsive, Sedative, Hypnotic
Duration of Effects:
1 to 16 hours
Possible Effects:
Slurred Speech, Disorientation, "Drunken" Behavior, Diminished Coordination, Increased Reflex Time, Addiction, Death
Methods of Use:
Oral, Injected
Effects of Overdose:
Shallow Respiration, Cold and Clammy Skin, Dilated Pupils, Weak and Rapid Pulse, Coma, Death
Withdrawal Symptoms:
Anxiety, Insomnia, Tremors, Delirium, Convulsions, Death