Barbiturates are primarily used for which of the following purposes?

Barbiturates are primarily used to induce sleep or reduce anxiety due to their sedative effects on the central nervous system. They work by enhancing the action of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which promotes relaxation and has a calming effect. This mechanism makes them effective in treating conditions related to sleep disorders and anxiety.

This usage reflects their historical context, as barbiturates were once widely prescribed for insomnia and as anxiolytics before the development and popularity of safer alternatives like benzodiazepines. While barbiturates can play a role in anesthesia and seizure control, their major applications remain rooted in the management of sleep and anxiety.