Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant used in liquid form. Different types include beer, wine, and liquor. Alcohol is absorbed by the stomach and immediately enters into the bloodstream. The first and most common side effect is the loss of inhibitions, allowing the drinker to "relax" and feel "comfortable" in various social situations. When too much alcohol is consumed, the user experiences dizziness, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, and most dangerously it impairs judgment and coordination. Alcohol is related to many traffic fatalities, as many users do not realize the full extent of their loss of ability to operate a motor vehicle.

Frequent use of alcohol over a long period of time can lead to addiction characterized by extreme cravings. When alcohol use is suddenly stopped, withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Long-term alcohol use can produce severe damage to the brain and liver. When a pregnant mother consumes alcohol, fetal alcohol syndrome can occur. The child may suffer from mental retardation and physical abnormalities.

AmbienŽ

Zolpidem tartrate, is a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic of the imidazopyridine class and is available in 5mg and 10mg strength for oral administration. It is used for the short-term treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Ativan

Ativan is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). Ativan affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety. Ativan is used to treat anxiety disorders.