Barbiturates are central nervous system depressants that are sedating and sleep-inducing, giving users a "hypnotic" feeling. They are used as anesthetics or to treat epilepsy, insomnia, anxiety, or severe headaches. Benzodiazepines, another type of central nervous system depressant, are used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and epilepsy. Benzodiazepines and barbiturates are highly addictive and are sometimes illegally abused. When used improperly, they can cause death. Barbiturates and Other Depressants, Third Edition provides important up-to-date information on the nature and chemistry of these drugs, their effects, abuse, addiction, and addiction treatment.