Levels of use 
- The 1998 NHS found 6.2% of 14-19 year olds had tried hypnosedatives
- The 2001 NHS found use in last twelve months amongst 14-19 year olds was 1%.
This group comprises a large number of synthetically made substances. They are depressants and result in a reduction in nervous system activity. They are often prescribed for treating insomnia and anxiety.
Benzodiazepines - some examples:
- alprazolam (eg Xanax)
- diazepam (eg Valium)
- temazepam (eg Normison)
- flunitrazepam (eg Rohypnol)
- oxazepam (eg Serepax)
These substances are also called minor tranquilizers. Some are used as muscle relaxants.
Barbiturates - some examples:
- pentobarbital
- henobarbital
- other sedatives, such as chloral hydrate and methaqualone (Mandrax).
Special considerations
-
Mental health concerns - use of these substances can help people feel less anxious, but do not change why the person feels anxious. There are many reasons why a young person may feel this way. There may be mental health problems that need to be addressed, as well as living situations that cause stress. Long-term use can result in mental health conditions that persist after detoxification.
-
Pregnancy - using hypnosedatives while pregnant may cause problems with growth and development of the foetus. The foetus can develop dependence. The substance can also be carried to the baby through breast milk and make the baby sleepy and difficult to feed.
-
Taking with other substances - taking these with alcohol and other depressants (opioids or other sedatives) can result in death. Mixing these substances can also increase the risk of accidents.
Effects
All of the substances in this group cause effects similar to alcohol.
Immediate effects - low dose:
- Slowing of thought and movement
- Decreased ability to concentrate
- Result in "hangover" effects such as slurred speech, sleepiness and coordination problems
- Reduced feelings of anxiety
Immediate effects - high dose:
- Sleep
- Unconsciousness which can result in death
Longer term effects:
- Dependence
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Inability to learn new things, and lack of coordination that lasts after detoxification.
Signs of withdrawal
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Inability to sleep
- Muscle cramps
Withdrawal from hypnosedatives can be dangerous and trigger convulsions and delirium tremors. With some of the hypnosedatives, withdrawal symptoms can be severe enough to cause death. Like for all substances, medical advice should be sought.
contents list / about the package / quick feedback / previous page / next page
Working with Young People with Alcohol or Other Drug Issues: A self-paced learning package Published: 2006 Funded by NSW Drug & Alcohol Workforce Development Council. Written & compiled by Kristy Delaney, YAPA, and Matt Stubbs & John Howard, Ted Noffs Institute. Additional material by Nick Manning, YAPA, & by Shopfront Youth Legal Centre. Opinions are the author's.
Be careful! YAPA and the authors took reasonable care to ensure that this information was correct at the time of publishing. However health information, and government regulations, laws and standards are complex and changing. The authors may not have health, safety, or legal qualifications, and information provided is general - it is not specific health, legal or professional advice. Do not rely on it - check with other publications and authorities and if necessary get qualified, medical, legal or professional advice for your situation.
