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Depressants

Similar term(s): downers.

Definition:

Depressants are substances that [diminish] the activity of the central nervous system.

Depressants are often referred to as "downers" because of their sedative, hypnotic, and tranquilizing effects.

There are both legal and illegal depressants. Alcohol is the most common legal depressant. Other depressants that are legal are often prescribed medications used to induce sleep, relieve stress, and subdue anxiety.

Source: www.streetdrugs.org   Depressants  

More:

Depressants make up one of the four groups of psychoactive drugs, next to hallucinogens, stimulants, and opioids.

Source: GreenFacts

Related words:

Alcohol - Hallucinogen - Nervous system - Opioids - Stimulants

To read about this term in context:

GreenFacts Summary on Psychoactive Drugs Tobacco, Alcohol, and Illicit Substances:

Translation(s):

Español: Depresores
Français: Dépresseurs
Nederlands: Kalmerende middelen

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