many prescription drugs are classified as depressants

Depressants are a type of drug classification for illicit and prescription drugs that slow down the central nervous system’s function. These drugs may cause a person to become tired, less energetic, or depressed. They can be dangerous and addictive. With this drug information, you may be unsure what you should do if you are using them. If you have an addiction to them, seeking help from Midwest Recovery Center may be the first step for you.

What Are Some Types of Depressants?

There are many prescription and illicit drugs that are classified as depressants. These drugs include:

  • Xanax
  • Valium
  • Librium
  • Ativan
  • Klonopin
  • Seconal
  • Halcion

Street names for these drugs include barbs, candy, downers, phennies, reds, and many others. These drugs are designed to be very effective at helping people with conditions such as anxiety or seizures. Yet, for those who do not have these underlying conditions, depressants can be very dangerous.

How Do Depressants Work? What Do They Do?

These drugs, typically called downers, are often sold in capsules, tablets, or liquid form. They are sometimes tranquilizers or antipsychotics. In all situations, these drugs are typically used to treat mental health disorders. They can be very effective in that area.

Another area of depressants are benzodiazepines or benzos. These drugs are used to treat conditions such as anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. They can be very effective at controlling those negative thought processes that lead to anxious feelings.

Yet another drug classification is barbiturates. Drugs like Amytal and Seconal are barbs, as they are called. These drugs are used to help with sleep disorders and work as sedatives.

What Are the Effects of Taking Depressants?

In the short term, most people will see a marked change in their behavior and thoughts. These drugs work to slow down brain function. They also slow heart rate and breathing. Overused, they can be very dangerous because of this.

Depressants also work to lower blood pressure. They can create unwanted side effects such as confusion, poor concentration, slurred speech, and disorientation. Some people may also have visual disturbances.

Can Depressants Cause Addiction?

Depressant addiction in Ohio is common. When a doctor prescribes these drugs, they need to be taken as directed. Taking them too often or using too much can cause addiction and dependence. Most of these drugs are highly addictive because of the way they trigger the neurotransmitters in the brain.  Over time, routine use of these drugs outside of prescription guidelines can be problematic. That is when it becomes critical to work with your doctor to stop taking them.

When Addiction Occurs with Depressants, Reach Out for Help

Depressant addiction is a disorder that requires treatment. If dependence occurs, a person is unable to stop using without treatment. That’s because the brain and body become reliant on it and need it to function normally. Yet, continued overuse can lead to overdose and sudden death. That’s why our team offers a comprehensive level of support and guidance to help you overcome your addiction.

Our treatment programs can help a person to stop using these drugs safely. It is not safe to stop without treatment and medical management in place. Our team can offer help with programs such as:

Call Midwest Recovery Center to Learn How to Start Healing

Depressants bring your mood down and calm the mind. Yet, they don’t cure the underlying problem you’re facing. When you have depressant addiction in Ohio, you may feel very alone and unable to embrace treatment. Let us help you. Call Midwest Recovery Center today at [Direct] or connect with us online to find out how we can help you.

*The stories shared in this blog are meant to illustrate personal experiences and offer hope. Unless otherwise stated, any first-person narratives are fictional or blended accounts of others’ personal experiences. Everyone’s journey is unique, and this post does not replace medical advice or guarantee outcomes. Please speak with a licensed provider for help.

Level Of Care

PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program)
Daytime treatment with structure, therapy, and support—return home each night.

IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program)
Flexible therapy a few days a week to balance life and recovery.

OP (Outpatient Program)
Ongoing therapy and support to maintain progress.

MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment)
Evidence-based care using medication and counseling to reduce cravings.

Ready to Start?
Call (833) 657-0858: to learn which program fits your recovery goals.

Who are you seeking help for? *

We’re here to listen and help you find the right path forward. Please tell us who needs care so we can match you with the best program and support.

💬 Your responses are 100% confidential and never shared outside our admissions team.

Recovery Shouldn’t Have to Wait — Begin Treatment Today.

At Ohio Treatment Center in Toledo, Ohio, we make it simple to take that first step toward healing. Our streamlined admissions process can often lead to same-day placement in treatment for MAT, PHP, IOP and more..

Call today for a free, confidential consultation with our caring admissions team — we’ll walk you through every step with compassion and clarity.

Call (833) 657-0858
Why call us?

Check Your Insurance Coverage in Minutes

We’ll handle the insurance details — so you can focus on getting better.

At Ohio Treatment Center, we work with most major private insurance providers to make treatment affordable and accessible. Complete our quick, confidential form below, and we’ll let you know if your plan is in-network — without contacting your insurance company.

Commonly accepted providers include:
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) • Aetna • Cigna • UnitedHealthcare • Humana • Anthem • Tricare

What Happens Next

  • Fill out the short form below
  • Our team reviews your benefits
  • We’ll contact you with your coverage details

Getting help shouldn’t be stressful. Let’s find out what your insurance can cover today.

Level Of Care

Detox
Begin recovery safely with 24/7 medical support. Our detox program helps you manage withdrawal comfortably and prepares you for the next step.

Residential Treatment
Continue healing in a supportive, structured setting with daily therapy, wellness activities, and round-the-clock care.

Aftercare
Before you leave, we’ll help you create a plan for ongoing support and lasting recovery.

Ready to Start?
Call (833) 657-0858: to learn which program fits your recovery goals.

Who are you seeking help for? *

We’re here to listen and help you find the right path forward. Please tell us who needs care so we can match you with the best program and support.

💬 Your responses are 100% confidential and never shared outside our admissions team.

Recovery Shouldn’t Have to Wait — Begin Treatment Today.

At Midwest Detox Center in Maumee, Ohio, we make it simple to take that first step toward healing. Our streamlined admissions process can often lead to same-day placement in treatment for medically supervised detox and residential treatment programs.

Call today for a free, confidential consultation with our caring admissions team — we’ll walk you through every step with compassion and clarity.

Call (833) 657-0858
Why call us?

Check Your Insurance Coverage in Minutes

We’ll handle the insurance details — so you can focus on getting better.

At Midwest Detox, we work with most major private insurance providers to make treatment affordable and accessible. Complete our quick, confidential form below, and we’ll let you know if your plan is in-network — without contacting your insurance company.

Commonly accepted providers include:
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) • Aetna • Cigna • UnitedHealthcare • Humana • Anthem • Tricare

What Happens Next

  • Fill out the short form below
  • Our team reviews your benefits
  • We’ll contact you with your coverage details

Getting help shouldn’t be stressful. Let’s find out what your insurance can cover today.

Level Of Care

Medical Detox
24/7 medically supervised detox to help you safely withdraw from drugs or alcohol while managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Inpatient Treatment
A structured, residential setting that provides continuous medical care, counseling, and therapeutic support to build a foundation for long-term recovery.

Residential Program
Comfortable, home-like housing where you can focus fully on healing with daily therapy, peer support, and holistic recovery services.

Ready to Start?
Call (833) 657-0858: to learn which program fits your recovery goals.

Who are you seeking help for? *

We’re here to listen and help you find the right path forward. Please tell us who needs care so we can match you with the best program and support.

💬 Your responses are 100% confidential and never shared outside our admissions team.

Recovery Shouldn’t Have to Wait — Begin Detox Today

At Ohio Detox Center in Maumee, Ohio, we make it simple to take that first step toward healing. Our streamlined admissions process can often lead to same-day placement in detox or inpatient treatment for substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Call today for a free, confidential consultation with our caring admissions team — we’ll walk you through every step with compassion and clarity.

Call (833) 657-0858
Why call us?

Check Your Insurance Coverage in Minutes

We’ll handle the insurance details — so you can focus on getting better.

We’ll take care of the details — so you can focus on getting better.
At Ohio Detox Center, we work with Ohio Medicaid and most major insurance providers to make treatment affordable and accessible.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Fill out the short form below
  2. Our team reviews your benefits
  3. We’ll contact you with your coverage details

Getting help shouldn’t be stressful. Let’s find out what your insurance can cover today.

Levels of Care

Detox
We understand that taking the first step can feel overwhelming. Our detox program offers a compassionate, medically supported environment where you can rest, heal, and begin recovery safely. You’ll never go through it alone — our team is with you every step of the way.

IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program)
A flexible treatment option that lets you maintain work, school, or family responsibilities while attending therapy several days a week. IOP focuses on relapse prevention, coping skills, and long-term recovery through group and individual sessions.

Residential
Residential care gives you the time and space to focus fully on healing. Surrounded by supportive staff and peers, you’ll work through underlying causes of addiction, rebuild healthy routines, and rediscover confidence in your recovery journey.

MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment)
Combining FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapy, MAT helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms related to opioid or alcohol use. Each treatment plan is closely monitored to ensure comfort, safety, and lasting recovery.

Ready to Start?
Call (833) 657-0858: to learn which program fits your recovery goals.

Who are you seeking help for? *

We’re here to listen and help you find the right path forward. Please tell us who needs care so we can match you with the best program and support.

Myself

A loved one or family member

💬 Your responses are 100% confidential and never shared outside our admissions team.

Check Your Insurance Coverage in Minutes

We’ll handle the insurance details — so you can focus on getting better.

At Midwest Centers at Youngstown, we work with most major private insurance providers to make treatment affordable and accessible. Complete our quick, confidential form below, and we’ll let you know if your plan is in-network — without contacting your insurance company.

Commonly accepted providers include:
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) • Aetna • Cigna • UnitedHealthcare • Humana • Anthem • Tricare

What Happens Next

  • Fill out the short form below
  • Our team reviews your benefits
  • We’ll contact you with your coverage details

Getting help shouldn’t be stressful. Let’s find out what your insurance can cover today.

Recovery Shouldn’t Have to Wait — Begin Treatment Today.

At Midwest Centers at Youngstown in Ohio, we make it simple to take that first step toward healing. Our streamlined admissions process can often lead to same-day placement in treatment for substance use or co-occurring mental health disorders.

Call today for a free, confidential consultation with our caring admissions team — we’ll walk you through every step with compassion and clarity.

Level Of Care

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our PHP offers a highly structured, supportive environment where you can focus on recovery during the day and return home at night. It’s an ideal step between inpatient and outpatient care, providing daily therapy, accountability, and a strong recovery routine.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our IOP gives you the flexibility to continue work, school, or family life while receiving evidence-based treatment several days a week. You’ll participate in group and individual therapy focused on relapse prevention, coping skills, and long-term healing.

Outpatient Program (OP)
For those transitioning from a higher level of care or seeking ongoing support, our outpatient program offers continued therapy at a pace that fits your lifestyle. It’s a supportive bridge that helps you maintain recovery and stay connected to care.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT combines FDA-approved medications with therapy and counseling to reduce cravings and support long-term recovery from opioid or alcohol addiction. Our team monitors each plan closely to ensure safety, comfort, and effectiveness.

Ready to Start?
Call (833) 657-0858: to learn which program fits your recovery goals.

Who are you seeking help for? *

We’re here to listen and help you find the right path forward. Please tell us who needs care so we can match you with the best program and support.

Myself

A loved one or family member

💬 Your responses are 100% confidential and never shared outside our admissions team.

Recovery Shouldn’t Have to Wait — Begin Treatment Today.

At Midwest Recovery Center in Toledo, Ohio, we make it simple to take that first step toward healing. Our streamlined admissions process can often lead to same-day placement in treatment for substance use or co-occurring mental health disorders.

Call today for a free, confidential consultation with our caring admissions team — we’ll walk you through every step with compassion and clarity.

Check Your Insurance Coverage in Minutes

We’ll handle the insurance details — so you can focus on getting better.

At Midwest Recovery Center, we work with most major private insurance providers to make treatment affordable and accessible. Complete our quick, confidential form below, and we’ll let you know if your plan is in-network — without contacting your insurance company.

Commonly accepted providers include:
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) • Aetna • Cigna • UnitedHealthcare • Humana • Anthem • Tricare

What Happens Next

  • Fill out the short form below
  • Our team reviews your benefits
  • We’ll contact you with your coverage details

Getting help shouldn’t be stressful. Let’s find out what your insurance can cover today.