Excessive use leads to tolerance, dependence and withdrawal symptoms similar to those of barbiturates. Overdose by glutethimide and methaqualone is more difficult to treat than barbiturate overdose, and deaths have frequently occurred. In 1991, glutethimide was transferred into Schedule II in response to an upsurge in the prevalence of diversion, abuse and overdose deaths. Meprobamate - Meprobamate was introduced as an antianxiety agent in 1955 and is prescribed primarily to treat anxiety, tension and associated muscle spasms. More than 50 tons are distributed annually in the U.S. under its generic name and brand names such as Miltown and Equanil.
Excessive use can result in psychological and physical dependence.
The benzodiazepine family of depressants are used therapeutically to produce sedation, induce sleep, relieve anxiety and muscle spasms and to prevent seizures. In general, benzodiazepines act as hypnotics in high doses, as anxiolytics in moderate doses and as sedatives in low doses. Of the drugs marketed in the United States that affect CNS function, benzodiazepines are among the most widely prescribed medications and, unfortunately, are frequently abused. Fifteen members of this group are presently marketed in the United States and an additional twenty are marketed in other countries. Like the barbiturates, benzodiazepines differ from one another in how fast they take effect and how long the effects last.