Depressants are drugs that slow down the central nervous system and body functions. They were first discovered in 1864 and used as sedatives, tranquilizers, and for anesthesia before surgeries. Depressants affect the nervous system by slowing brain and spinal cord functions, the cardiovascular system by lowering heart rate and blood pressure, the respiratory system by potentially making users more prone to illness, and the digestive system if the liver is impacted. Their effects include slowed speech, fatigue, confusion, and in high doses, coma or death.

1. Depressants
By: Kayla Allen

2. What are Depressants?
Depressants are drugs that slow down body
functions and metabolism. They can be known as
“downers” because they calm you down and
relax you. They slow down your heart rate to
make you feel more relaxed. Their main job is to
slow down the central nervous system. The two
oldest depressants are paraldehyde and chloral
hydrate.

3. History of Depressants
Depressants were first discovered in 1864 by
Adolf von Bayer. They were used as hypnotic
sedatives, tranquilizers, and anti-anxiety
medicine.They were used to give people before
surgeries as well.

4. ❖ Slurred speech
❖ Low blood pressure
❖ Slow breathing
❖ Poor concentration
❖ Fatigue
❖ Fever
❖ Confusion
❖ Tolerance for drugs
❖ Coma
❖ Depression
❖ Sexual problems
❖ Breathing problems
❖ Death
Short Term Effects Long Term Effects

5. Body Systems Affected
● Nervous System
○ Drugs affect the spinal cord and brain. It slows down
regular body functions.
● Cardiovascular System
○ Drugs slow down the heart rate and causes low blood
pressure.
● Digestive System
○ Drugs can make your liver work incorrectly.
● Respiratory System
○ It can can affect how easily you get sick. You may be
more prone to getting ill.

6. Street Names
➔ Xanax
➔ Red Birds
➔ Yellow Jackets
➔ Candy
➔ Barbs

7. Link to Quiz
https://www.boundless.
com/quizzes/17336/depressant-quiz-quiz/
You have to click on your answer then click on
the question number to check your answer.