barbiturates

1. Substances derived from an organic compound that are used as sedatives and sleep inducers. Barbiturates, which work by depressing the activity of the central nervous system , are sometimes used in the treatment of illnesses such as epilepsy .

Example Sentences

She had taken an overdose of barbiturates, whether deliberately or accidentally it was impossible to tell.

From The Daily Beast

Like all barbiturates, it can overwhelm alertness to the point of stopping the urge to breathe.

From The Daily Beast

His sister, Leila, was found dead in a London hotel room in 2001 after taking an overdose of barbiturates.

From The Daily Beast

In July, with their adult children standing next to them, they drank a cocktail of barbiturates and sank into the deepest sleep.

From The Daily Beast