Seconal is the brand name for a drug that slows down activity in the brain. Generically, it is called secobarbital, and it is commonly used to treat epilepsy. It can also be used on a short-term basis for insomnia, and in some cases, as a sedative before surgery. It is part of the barbiturate class of drugs.
Seconal is known to cause chemical dependency and addiction if used for long periods or abused. It is a central nervous system depressant, much like alcohol and some sleep aids. Seconal works in the brain by interacting with a chemical messenger called gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), which regulates excitability. It makes GABA work more efficiently, which is the reason it is good for insomnia.
However, Seconal can cause intoxication and euphoria by influencing the “feel-good” chemicals, such as dopamine. The chemicals can alter the reward center of the brain permanently and cause addiction.
Seconal Addiction Signs and Symptoms
The American Psychiatric Association defines addiction as a “brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence.” Addiction is also called a severe substance use disorder (SUD). This disorder can cause affected people to be intensely focused on using certain substances, like Seconal, even when they know it can cause problems. One of the most common signs of Seconal addiction is having withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug.
Some of the Seconal withdrawal symptoms someone might feel are:
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Twitching
- Sleep pattern changes
There are 11 criteria for addiction, as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). The signs include physical symptoms like tolerance and withdrawal, and also psychological symptoms, such as depression and anxiety. The signs and symptoms below are also essential in which to be aware:
- Not being able to cut back or stop use when trying to stop taking the substance
- Taking more of the drug than intended
- Increasing the dosage without a doctor’s orders
- Unusual sleep patterns
- A decline in work or school performance
- Feeling the need to have more of the substance to feel the same effects
- Experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when stop using the substance
- Feeling intoxicated frequently
- No interest in other activities
- Potent cravings for the substance
- Taking the substance despite physical and mental issues
How Seconal Addiction Treatment Works?
Addiction is a chronic disease that may become worse if not treated. Addiction treatment at an accredited facility is tailored to the needs of the client. It addresses all issues related to the SUD from physical to social needs. A medical evaluation is the first part once entering a treatment program.
There are four levels of care, as explained by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, which include medical detox, inpatient programs, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient services.
Family Recovery Specialists also has an adolescent treatment program.
Addiction professionals work with the client to find the best treatment options.
How Dangerous Is Seconal?
Seconal addiction can be dangerous and possibly fatal if not treated. The possibility of an overdose is real, even accidentally. Mixing Seconal with alcohol or marijuana can cause life-threatening symptoms, as barbiturates may produce respiratory depression in higher doses.
The withdrawal symptoms from Seconal can also produce dangerous overactivity in the central nervous system, which may cause death. If you notice or experience the signs of Seconal dependence or addiction, it is imperative to contact the prescribing doctor or seek medical help right away.
