Quaaludes, also known as methaqualone, are a synthetic central nervous system (CNS) depressant that acts as a sedative and hypnotic drug
. They were first synthesized in the 1950s and were initially prescribed as sedatives and sleep aids
. The drug is known for its addictive properties and the potential to cause severe withdrawal symptoms
. Some key aspects of Quaaludes include:
- Effects : Quaaludes boost the activity of the brain's GABA receptors and nervous system, leading to a state of drowsiness
. The effects begin after 30 minutes and can last up to 6 hours
- Overdose : An overdose of Quaaludes can cause coma and death, especially when taken with alcohol, which is also a CNS depressant
- Addiction : Due to their high addiction potential, Quaaludes were banned as a prescription drug in the United States in 1984
- History : Quaaludes were once popular for recreational use in the late 1960s and 1970s, particularly in discos
. The drug was manufactured in the United States under the name Quaalude with the number 714 stamped on the tablets
Today, Quaaludes are not commonly found on the streets in the US
. The drug has become a mythical substance, and its production and use have significantly decreased since its peak in the early 1970s
