Unit 7 Lesson 2 Joshua's Law (2025)

FAQs

What relaxes the central nervous system? ›

Examples of central nervous system depressants are benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and certain sleep medicines. Central nervous system depressants are sometimes called sedatives or tranquilizers. Also called CNS depressant.

Benzodiazepines are the most common group of prescribed sedatives. The most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines are diazepam (Valium®) and alprazolam (Xanax®).

Once a person stops consuming alcohol, their BAC will peak, level off, and begin to drop. On average, the rate of decrease is about 0.015 percent per hour, but it varies by individual in a range between 0.008 and 0.02 percent.

The “synergistic effect” happens when you drink alcohol and ingest some kind of drug. The combination of drugs and alcohol will increase the effects of alcohol on your body. Even if you have only had one glass of wine, ingesting any kind of drug can sharply increase your impairment.

Deep, diaphragmatic breathing

A large body of research has shown that controlled breathing exercises regulate blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety. Research in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience focused on the ways slowed breathing and extended exhales stimulate the vagus, causing parasympathetic dominance [15].

Your parasympathetic nervous system is a network of nerves that relaxes your body after periods of stress or danger. It also helps run life-sustaining processes, like digestion, during times when you feel safe and relaxed.

Common sedatives include barbiturates, benzodiazepines, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), opioids and sleep inducing drugs such as zolpidem (Ambien) and eszopiclone (Lunesta). Sedatives are central nervous system depressants and vary widely in their potency. They are usually in the form of a pill or liquid.

Benzodiazepines. Sometimes called “benzos,” benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that are prescribed to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, convulsions, and other acute stress reactions. Common benzos include Valium, Xanax, and Ativan.

Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines Slow brain function by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which decreases brain activity and causes feelings of drowsiness and calmness. These drugs also decrease heart rate and blood pressure.

For example, within a single hour of drinking, a 190-pound man will reach a . 08 BAC after five standard drinks, while a 190-pound woman reach that BAC in four drinks.

What BAC is blackout? ›

When Do Blackouts Occur? Blackouts tend to begin at blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) of about 0.16 percent (nearly twice the legal driving limit) and higher. At these BACs, most cognitive abilities (e.g., impulse control, attention, judgment, and decision-making) are significantly impaired.

BAC 0.30% to 0.40%: In this percentage range, you'll likely have alcohol poisoning, a potentially life-threatening condition, and experience loss of consciousness. BAC Over 0.40%: This is a potentially fatal blood alcohol level.

Slow down to improve your traction when driving on snow or ice. Remember “Ice and snow, take it slow.” Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads, overpasses, and bridges if possible. Put extra space between you and other drivers. Increase your following distance from 3-4 seconds to 5-6 seconds.

Reasons for mixing drugs

to 'bring' on or enhance the desired effects of one drug, such as drinking alcohol while using stimulants. to stop or decrease the negative effects of a drug, such as using depressants like cannabis or benzodiazepines to reduce the impact of coming down from stimulants.

Synergism: when the combine effect of two drugs is greater than the sum of their effects when given separately.

GABA is known for producing a calming effect. It's thought to play a major role in controlling nerve cell hyperactivity associated with anxiety, stress and fear.

Cognitive-behavioral changes are vital for resetting the nervous system. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or deep breathing exercises, can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a state of calm and counteracts the stress response.

Examples of CNS depressants are benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and certain sleep medicines. CNS depressants are sometimes called sedatives or tranquilizers. Also called central nervous system depressant.