Introduction to the "Blue Devil"
The term "blue devil drug" refers to the barbiturate amobarbital, often recognized by its former brand name, Amytal [1.3.5, 1.3.6]. Barbiturates are a class of drugs that act as central nervous system (CNS) depressants, meaning they slow down brain activity [1.3.7]. First synthesized in Germany in 1923, amobarbital gained popularity for its sedative-hypnotic properties [1.3.6]. For decades, it was prescribed to treat conditions like insomnia and anxiety [1.6.2]. However, due to its high potential for abuse, severe psychological or physical dependence, and the high risk of fatal overdose, its medical use has been largely superseded by safer alternatives like benzodiazepines [1.3.5, 1.6.2]. Today, its use is heavily restricted.
Pharmacology of Amobarbital
Amobarbital is classified as an intermediate-acting barbiturate, with its effects typically lasting four to six hours [1.5.1, 1.5.5]. It works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain signals [1.6.4]. This action produces a spectrum of effects, from mild sedation to general anesthesia. Due to its significant risks, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies amobarbital as a Schedule II controlled substance [1.6.1, 1.6.3]. This classification indicates it has accepted medical uses but also a high potential for abuse and severe dependence [1.7.3]. Its medical application is now rare and primarily confined to hospital settings, such as for the Wada test to determine language and memory functions in the brain before surgery [1.6.1].
Short and Long-Term Effects of Blue Devils
When misused, amobarbital can induce a state similar to alcohol intoxication, characterized by euphoria, reduced inhibition, and drowsiness [1.2.2, 1.3.5].
Immediate Effects:
- Drowsiness and sedation [1.4.1]
- Slurred speech and confusion [1.2.2]
- Impaired coordination and poor judgment [1.4.4]
- Dizziness and headaches [1.4.2]
- In some cases, paradoxical excitement or agitation may occur [1.4.5]
Long-Term Risks and Dangers:
Continued use of amobarbital can lead to the development of tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect, and severe physical and psychological dependence [1.4.2]. Withdrawal from barbiturates can be life-threatening, producing symptoms like delirium, tremors, and potentially fatal seizures [1.3.2, 1.4.4].
The most significant acute danger is overdose. Barbiturates have a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic one is small. An overdose can cause severe respiratory depression (shallow or stopped breathing), coma, and death [1.4.4]. The risk is dramatically amplified when amobarbital is combined with other CNS depressants like alcohol or opioids [1.4.2, 1.4.7].
Comparison: Amobarbital vs. Other Sedatives
To understand its place among sedatives, it's helpful to compare amobarbital to other common drugs.
Feature | Amobarbital (Blue Devil) | Phenobarbital | Diazepam (Valium) |
---|---|---|---|
Drug Class | Intermediate-Acting Barbiturate | Long-Acting Barbiturate | Benzodiazepine |
Duration of Action | 4 to 6 hours [1.5.1] | Up to 12 hours [1.5.1] | 20 to 50 hours (half-life) |
Primary Use | Historically for insomnia/anxiety; now mainly for specialized medical tests (Wada test) [1.6.1] | Seizure control (epilepsy) [1.5.1] | Anxiety, muscle spasms, seizure control |
Addiction/Abuse Risk | High (Schedule II) [1.6.3] | High (Schedule IV) [1.6.6] | High (Schedule IV) |
Overdose Risk | Very High, especially with other CNS depressants [1.4.4] | High, but lower than shorter-acting barbiturates | High, but generally considered safer than barbiturates |
Street Names, Appearance, and Legal Status
While "blue devils" is a common street name, amobarbital is also known as "blue heavens," "blue velvet," "downers," and "blue birds" [1.3.2, 1.3.6]. The name derives from the bright blue, bullet-shaped capsules it was sold in by Eli Lilly under the brand name Amytal [1.3.6]. Although the tablet form has been banned by the FDA for personal prescription, it may still be found illegally [1.3.4, 1.6.2]. As a Schedule II substance, possessing or distributing amobarbital without authorization carries severe legal penalties [1.6.1, 1.7.6].
Conclusion
The "blue devil drug," or amobarbital, is a powerful and dangerous barbiturate with a significant history of abuse. Its sedative effects come with the high price of addiction, severe withdrawal, and a life-threatening overdose risk. While it once had a place in medicine, its use has been rightly curtailed in favor of safer alternatives. Understanding the risks associated with this substance is crucial for public health and safety.
For more information on controlled substances, visit the DEA website [1.8.5].