Butalbital is a type of barbiturate. It is not an addictive substance on its own, but when combined with other ingredients to make common drugs like caffeine it becomes damaging. Butalbital is merely the main ingredient that causes the addiction. Perhaps the most common medical use for butalbital is in aspirin. This is prescribed all across the world to cure headaches and muscle pain.
Side Effects
The side effects are extremely wide ranging due to the amount of different uses this substance has. At best, users can experience minor symptoms like drowsiness, dizziness, and the feeling of intoxication. In situations that are more serious the person can experience amnesia, nausea, and the inability to judge situations properly (including dangerous ones).
Stevens-Johnson syndrome is also a rare condition caused in more extreme situations.
Addictive Nature
When combined to make other drugs it becomes psychologically and physically addictive. It has been known to kill people when mixed with alcohol due to respiratory depression. Sometimes it can poison the liver due to the high toxicity levels. It is also a frequent suicide method when it is in paracetamol form.
Butalbital in its pure form is not easily obtained on the streets. However, since there are traces of it in so many common substances, it is relatively easy to experience the sense of euphoria associated with butalbital use.
Butalbital Addiction Treatment
The presence of this drug in so many different products means that it is difficult to pinpoint exactly what the patient is using to get their fix. It is also tough to regulate their exposure to the drug since it appears in drinks like coffee and common pain relievers like aspirin. This is why the affected individuals need structure and support in their lives in the form of residential rehabilitation. By substituting some common products like aspirin with alternatives, and weaning them from their dependencies, patients can create a better life for themselves.
