Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What is a characteristic of depressants?

1. They increase alertness and energy

2. They slow down the central nervous system

3. They are primarily used to treat anxiety disorders

4. They induce hallucinations

The correct answer is: They slow down the central nervous system

Depressants are a class of substances known for their ability to reduce the activity of the central nervous system (CNS). This slowing down of the CNS leads to various physiological and psychological effects, such as decreased heart rate, lowered blood pressure, and a sense of calm or relaxation. Medications such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates, which are often used as sedatives or anxiolytics, exemplify this characteristic. By inhibiting brain activity, depressants can be effective in treating conditions such as anxiety and insomnia, which is why they're sometimes prescribed for these specific disorders. Understanding this fundamental trait is crucial for recognizing how depressants differ from other drug classifications, such as stimulants or hallucinogens.