Naltrexone is a long acting opioid blocker often used with highly motivated individuals in treatment programs promoting complete abstinence, and also to prevent relapse. Buprenorphine, another synthetic opioid, will soon be available. Also, naloxone counteracts the effects of opioids and is used to treat overdoses. CNS Depressants CNS depressants slow down normal brain function. In higher doses, some CNS depressants can become general anesthetics.
Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals that facilitate communication between brain cells.
GABA works by decreasing brain activity. Although different classes of CNS depressants work in unique ways, ultimately it is their ability to increase GABA activity that produces a drowsy or calming effect. Despite these beneficial effects for people suffering from anxiety or sleeping disorders, barbiturates and benzodiazepines can be addictive and should be used only as prescribed. The effects of the drugs can combine to slow breathing, or slow both the heart and respiration, which can be fatal. Discontinuing prolonged use of high doses of CNS depressants can lead to withdrawal.