One 2020 study found that a compound in hops (the very same hops that makes beer beery) might interact with GABA receptors in the brain — yep, that GABA. They used to go by the name central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which mixing zantac and alcohol pretty neatly describes what they do. The exact effects of inhalants also vary, but they typically follow four stages (see figure below). Stage 1 is the excitatory stage, where the user experiences euphoria and agitation.
Adverse Effects
- They were also shown to reduce the number and intensity of seizures—a first since no other drugs were effective at treating epilepsy at the time—and began to see popular use as anticonvulsants.
- Although prescription opioid use seems to be stable, it remains alarmingly common among those who drink regularly.
- Once your CNS is back on track, you’ll need to address the source of the problem.
It drastically increases the severity of diseases and also makes the treatments less effective. Alcohol not only affects the person physiologically, but it has many adverse effects psychologically and socially too. It is not always necessary that these mentioned signs and symptoms are compulsorily linked with disease conditions. This review provides insight into alcohol mediated brain damage and establishes evidence that changes in the pathophysiology and lifestyle modifications can be an option for recovery and cell restoration in alcohol-induced neurodegeneration.
Chapter 10: CNS Depressants
Aside from alcohol, we will also find sedatives and hypnotics in this category. Since they share similar functions and many sedatives cause hypnotic effects at higher doses (and vice-versa), they are usually referred to as a single class of drug, sedative-hypnotics. Prolonged alcohol intake for many years has been known to cause serious ailments in human beings since time memorial. Even after knowing that this dangerous addiction paves the way to one’s own grave, there isn’t much difference in the way the community sees this deadly habit.
Benefits and Risks of CNS Depressants
Alcohol is a key player in impairing anti-inflammatory cytokines and also promotes proinflammatory immune responses. The gastrointestinal biome is severely manipulated by the use of alcohol over a long period of time, which in turn is found to have a link with the establishment of various complications [27]. Alcohol and its metabolites are found to promote inflammation in the intestines and they do so through varied pathways [28].
Opioids are often misused and used recreationally, making them one of the leading causes of CNS depression. Some common types of opioids typically prescribed for severe pain include Vicodin and Percocet. Research suggests that light or moderate wine consumption may reduce the risk of dementia, but drinking an excessive amount of wine increases the chance of dementia and cognitive decline. Under the guidance of a medical professional, stimulants may be helpful for certain individuals. However, misuse of stimulants can have serious health consequences, including physical dependence and stimulant addiction, also known as stimulant use disorder.
