Sedative
Barbiturates
An older family of sedatives, now mostly used for seizures and in some headache pills. The gap between a dose that works and a dose that kills is small.
Also called: phenobarbital, Fioricet, downers
Withdrawal can be deadlySigns it has become a problem
- Sluggish, slurred, unsteady
- Taking headache pills daily
- Needing more to sleep
What withdrawal is like
Overdose and emergencies
Slowed breathing, coma. There is no reversal drug. Call 911.
Dangerous combinations
Extremely dangerous with alcohol or opioids.
What actually helps
Inpatient medical detox with a slow taper.
Common questions
Can you die from barbiturates withdrawal?
Yes, it can be fatal. Like alcohol and benzos, barbiturate withdrawal can cause seizures and death. It must be medically managed.
What does an overdose or emergency look like?
Slowed breathing, coma. There is no reversal drug. Call 911.
What treatment works for barbiturates?
Inpatient medical detox with a slow taper.
Written in plain English for education. It is not a diagnosis or medical advice. Demo Clinical review by a licensed professional is part of the launch plan and will be named here.
Other substances
Not sure where to start?
Tell us what is going on. Someone who has been there will point you to the next right step. No pressure, no sales pitch.