About Sedative Dependence

Sedative is a substance which induces sedation by minimizing excitement and irritability. Some sedatives can cause dependence when used for long period of time. The best known sedatives are benzodiazepine and barbiturates.

Sedatives can be extremely addictive, even in people who are taking them under the guidance of a physician. Some people take sedatives as a way to modulate the crash that comes after taking stimulant drugs, such as cocaine. This type of sedative use may cause a sedative addiction in addition to a stimulant addiction, which can make treatment more complicated.

Withdrawal from sedatives may include cravings for the drug, anxiety, nervousness, tremors, insomnia, nightmares, loss of appetite, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, and a rise or fall in blood pressure.

Sedative abuse treatment should be given under the supervision of a medical professional because of the risk of seizures or other serious effects when the body is suddenly deprived of the drug. Treatment typically consists of gradually halting drug use in a controlled way so that withdrawal symptoms do not become dangerous. The patient simultaneously undergoes counselling in an inpatient or outpatient setting in addition to undergoing gradual detoxification.