Drug Abuse at Sea:

Sedatives (tranquillisers, sleeping tablets):

Description

Sedatives depress the nervous system in the same way as alcohol and produces similar effects. There are many hundreds of brand names on the market containing a variety of active ingredients including barbiturates, methaqualone and benzodiazepines. Sedatives are sometimes used to offset the effects of stimulant drugs or with other downer drugs such as alcohol and heroin. Some users inject them which carries the added risk of contracting HIV and hepatitis B or C and can also damage veins.

In their pure form all are white powders but they are normally found as pills, tablets and capsules and may be coloured.

Smell

All forms are normally odourless.

Administration

Heroin may be smoked, inhaled or injected.

Associated Equipment

Usually none except empty wrappings.

Degree of Addiction

	Psychological addiction:	strong
	Environmental addiction:	fairly strong
	Physical addiction:	fairly strong
	Body tolerance:	fairly strong

Influence and Symptoms

The user may exhibit dilated pupils, have a drowsy appearance and slurred speech. Side effects include forgetfulness, confusion, depression and digestive problems. Some users may become over-excited and occasionally violent. Large doses can produce unconsciousness, eventual respiratory failure and death. Withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, sleeping problems, panic attacks, nausea, fits and occasionally hallucinations. The drugs stay in the body for a long time and withdrawal symptoms can last for months or longer after stopping the tablets.

Popular Myths
Fiction:	It is not a dangerous drug. Easy to get hold of and cheaper than hard drugs
Fact:	It is easily overdosed and is extremely dangerous when mixed with alcohol or if the contents of capsules are injected. Black market prices can be high