Barbiturates are commonly used as what?

Barbiturates are primarily classified as sedatives, which means they are substances that promote calmness, relaxation, and sleep. They affect the central nervous system by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), leading to a decrease in neural activity. This sedative effect makes them useful in treating anxiety, insomnia, and as anesthetics in medical settings.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary use of barbiturates. Stimulants are substances that increase activity in the nervous system, while antidepressants are aimed at alleviating symptoms of depression. Analgesics are medications designed to relieve pain. Understanding these classifications helps clarify the specific therapeutic roles that different types of drugs, including barbiturates, play in medical practice.