Unlike amphetamines which stimulate the central nervous system, barbituates depress the central nervous system. These are used in minor forms by the medical profession to relieve anxiety, stress and tensions. But many of these minor tranquilizers, including Valium and Librium, can lead to tolerance and dependence. The abuse of these can depress respiration, affect heart rate, and decrease blood pressure and temperature. Barbituates are used by people to escape serious personal problems, or to counteract the effects of stimulant drugs.
Unsupervised use can result in mental and emotional confusion and loss of muscular coordination.
Barbituates, when combined with other drugs, can result in very serious intoxication or death. The Bible condemns, not the use, but the abuse of all drugs. Millions of people have been bitten by the drug bug. Many use them to evade frustrations, to lessen depression and feelings of alienation, or to escape from themselves. This flight from reality does not solve a person's problems.