What type of CNS depressants are restricted to short-term use due to side effects, including tolerance?

Barbiturates are a class of CNS depressants that are indeed restricted to short-term use because of significant side effects, including the development of tolerance. Barbiturates function by enhancing the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. While effective for sedation and anxiety relief, long-term use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This increased tolerance can also increase the risk of dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and dangerous respiratory depression.

In contrast, benzodiazepines, while also having issues with tolerance and dependency, are generally used for longer periods but still with caution. SSRIs are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders and are not classified as CNS depressants. Antihistamines, while they can have sedative effects, are not typically categorized as CNS depressants in the same sense and are often used more freely for allergy relief.

The characteristics of barbiturates make them particularly concerning for long-term use, thus limiting their prescription duration compared to other medications used in the central nervous system.