It takes a while for the body to adapt or get used to CNS depressants. The side effects are similar to what happens when someone has too much to drink (alcohol is a CNS depressant, too).

At first, even if you take a CNS depressant as prescribed, it can cause slurred speech, sleepiness, dizziness and loss of coordination, which explains why some medications come with a warning to avoid driving a car, using tools or operating heavy machinery. The most serious side effects are decreased breathing and decreased heart rate, which can lead to death.

It’s also why, as with all prescription medications, you should only take them as prescribed and only take them as directed.

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