The wait times in our emergency departments are longer than usual due to illnesses like RSV and the flu. View our estimated ED wait times and learn more about where to get care for your sick child.

Patient & Family Education Materials

Start over with a New Search

What Are Depressants?

Article Translations: (Spanish)

Depressants

Say: dih-PREH-sents

Depressants are a kind of drug that, when used exactly as prescribed by a doctor, can help relax muscles or calm nerves. Larger or improperly used doses of depressant drugs can cause confusion, lack of coordination, shaking, slurred speech, trouble concentrating, and sleepiness. Very large doses of depressant drugs can stop someone from breathing and the person could even die.

Back To Top

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

© 1995-2025 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com