BARBITURATES Meaning and
Definition
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Barbiturates are a class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants, primarily used for their sedative and hypnotic properties. They are primarily derived from barbituric acid and were once extensively prescribed as sleep aids and anxiety medications. However, their use has significantly declined due to their potential for abuse and addiction.
Barbiturates work by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, leading to sedation and relaxation. They act on specific receptors in the brain to produce their effects, including sedation, sleepiness, reduced anxiety, and muscle relaxation. Due to their sedating properties, barbiturates can be effective in treating seizure disorders and sedating patients before surgery.
Despite their therapeutic benefits, barbiturates are associated with a range of risks and side effects. They can cause physical and psychological dependence, leading to addiction, and withdrawal symptoms upon sudden discontinuation. High doses or prolonged use can result in respiratory depression, overdose, and even death.
Due to their potential for abuse and the availability of safer and more effective alternatives, such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates are now less commonly prescribed. They are classified as controlled substances in many countries, tightly regulated, and mainly restricted to use in anesthesia, seizure management, and research purposes.
Overall, barbiturates are central nervous system depressants once widely used for their sedative properties but have fallen out of favor due to the risk of abuse, addiction, and potential for serious side effects.
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Etymology of BARBITURATES
The word "barbiturates" is derived from the term "barbituric acid", which itself is derived from the name "Barbara", as in Saint Barbara, and "uric acid". Uric acid is a naturally occurring substance found in various plants and animals. The German chemists Josef von Mering and Emil Fischer discovered barbituric acid in 1863 while searching for substances that could act as antipyretic (fever-reducing) agents. They named it after Saint Barbara's day, which fell on the day they made the discovery, December 4th.
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