Depressants are used to?

• A. Depress or slow the central nervous system, calming irritability and anxiety, and may induce sleep
• B. Speed up the central nervous system
• C. Increase alertness
• D. Treat infections

Answer: (A)

Depressants slow the activity of the central nervous system, producing calming, anxiety-reducing, and sleep-inducing effects. They work by enhancing the brain’s inhibitory signals—mainly through GABA receptors—so neuronal activity decreases, leading to calmer thoughts, relaxation, and drowsiness. That’s why they’re used to treat anxiety, to help with sleep, and for sedation when needed. They do not speed up brain or body processes, which is why they aren’t used to increase alertness or energy, and they don’t treat infections.