Opiate and benzos

Answer 1

Opiates are so named because they are constituents or derivatives of constituents found in opium, which is processed from the latex sap of the opium poppy, Papaver Somniferum. The major biologically active opiates found in opium are morphine, codeine, thebaine and papaverine. Synthetic opioids such as heroin and hydrocodone are derived from these substances, especially morphine and codeine. Noscapine, narceine and approximately 25 other alkaloids are also present in opium, but have little to no effect on the human central nervous system, and are not usually considered to be opiates. Opium is mostly produced in Asia.[citation needed]

The benzodiazepines (pronounced [ˌbɛnzəʊdaɪˈæzəˌpiːn], often abbreviated to "benzos") are a class of psychoactive drugs with varying hypnotic, sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant and amnesic properties, which are mediated by slowing down the central nervous system.[1] Benzodiazepines are useful in treating anxiety, insomnia, agitation, seizures, and muscle spasms, as well as alcohol withdrawal. They can also be used before certain medical procedures such as endoscopies or dental work where tension and anxiety are present, and prior to some unpleasant medical procedures in order to induce sedation and amnesia[2] for the procedure. Another use is to counteract anxiety-related symptoms upon initial use of SSRIs and other antidepressants, or as an adjunctive treatment. Recreational stimulant users often use benzodiazepines as a means of "coming down" (see: Drug abuse). Benzodiazepines are also used to treat the panic that can be caused by hallucinogen intoxication.[3]

Answer 2

Opiates are narcotics related to the opium derived from the poppy plant. In common usage, the term "opiate" refers to medications (or drugs) that have a strong analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, along with causing euphoric states. They are central nervous system depressants. Examples include morphine, oxycodone, meperidine, fentanyl, heroin, codeine, hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lortab) (although not all of these are true "opiates").

Benzodiazepines (NOT amphetamines) are generally anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) medications, which are ALSO CNS depressants. They tend to have anxiolytic, hypnotic, amnesic, anti-convulsant, sedative, and muscle-relaxant effects. These drugs include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), diazepam (Valium), and chlordiazepoxide (Librium).

Answer 3

Barbiturates cause depression of the central nervous system and are strong sedatives. They are used for anesthesia, sedation, induction of sleep, and suppression of seizures. They are able to cause a high level of sedation with a potential to cause death by overdose.

Opiate is a specific category and only includes compounds present in opium such as morphine and codeine. An opiod describes any synthetic or natural drug that acts in a manner similar to morphine. Opiods are the most effective pain relievers available and are used to relieve pain without causing a loss of consciousness.

They work by activating Mu and Kappa receptors in the central nervous system which produces a euphoric and pain relieving effect.

In short, barbiturates cause sedation and opiates cause euphoria and pain relief without sedation.