National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

Which characteristic is true of most barbiturates?

1. They are short-acting

2. They have a low abuse liability

3. They are long-acting

4. They are non-addictive

The correct answer is: They are long-acting

Most barbiturates are known for their long-acting properties. This means that they tend to produce effects that can persist for several hours after administration. Long-acting barbiturates are typically used in medical settings for conditions such as seizure disorders, anesthesia, and sometimes for sedation. The pharmacokinetics of these substances allows them to be effective over extended periods, which is a key characteristic of many barbiturate formulations. In contrast, short-acting barbiturates do exist, but they are not the predominant category. Additionally, barbiturates generally have a significant potential for abuse and addiction due to their depressant effects on the central nervous system. As a result, labeling them as having low abuse liability or being non-addictive would not accurately represent their risk profile. Therefore, recognizing that most barbiturates are indeed long-acting is crucial for understanding their pharmacological behavior and their implications in both medical treatment and potential for misuse.