Which of the following substances produces a withdrawal syndrome that, like alcohol, can be fatal if untreated?
- A Heroin
- B Barbiturates ✓
- C Cocaine
- D Cannabis
Correct answer: B. Barbiturates
Explanation
Barbiturates and other sedative-hypnotics act on the same GABA-A chloride channel system as alcohol, so their withdrawal mirrors alcohol withdrawal and includes seizures, delirium, autonomic instability, and death in severe cases. Opioid withdrawal, although intensely distressing with vomiting, diarrhoea, and piloerection, is rarely life threatening in a healthy adult. Cannabis and cocaine withdrawal cause dysphoria and craving but are not fatal.
Reference: Katzung's Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 16th ed.
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