Barbiturate

A depressant derived from barbituric acid, for example, amobarbital, pentobarbital, phenobarbital and secobarbital. Used as anti-epileptics, anaesthetics, sedatives, hypnotics, and less commonly, as anti-anxiety drugs. Increasing dosage produces progressive central nervous system depression, ranging from mild sedation to anaesthesia.

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Base

Another term for methamphetamine.

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Benzodiazepines

Minor tranquillisers that affect the central nervous system by slowing down the body physically, mentally and emotionally. Prescribed by doctors to treat anxiety, sleeping problems, epilepsy, alcohol withdrawal, and muscle spasms.

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Betel nut

Also known as Areca nut, is a stimulant similar to nicotine. It is chewed in a similar manner to chewing tobacco.

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Binge

An episode of intense (concentrated) or excessive alcohol or other drug use over a short period of time or continuously over a number of days or weeks.

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Bipolar disorder

Formerly called manic depression, bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterised by recurring and extreme swings in mood and behaviour, from depression and sadness, to elation and excitement. There are several types of bipolar disorder.

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Blood alcohol content (BAC)

Measure of the amount of alcohol in a person's blood. Generally, the more alcohol a person drinks the higher their BAC.

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Blotter

Paper on which LSD has been absorbed.

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Bong

A type of water pipe used for smoking cannabis.

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Brief intervention

A minimal interaction with a medical or mental health professional ranging in duration from several minutes to several sessions. This term is used primarily in the context of treatment for substance use problems.

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Buprenorphine

A synthetic agonist/antagonist that can be used in substitution treatment for heroin dependence. It has been used for the short-term treatment of moderate to severe pain. Withdrawal from buprenorphine is milder and the overdose risk is lower than with other opioid agonists.

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