Barbiturates are depressants that produce a wide spectrum of central nervous system depression from mild sedation to coma. They also have been used as sedatives, hypnotics, anesthetics, and anticonvulsants.
Barbiturates are classified as: Ultrashort, Short, Intermediate, Long-acting.
Drugs with similar effects include: Alcohol, benzodiazepines like Valium® and Xanax®, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, Rohypnol®, and GHB.
Barbiturates are Schedule II, III, and IV depressants under the Controlled Substances Act.