Respiratory depression is also called hypoventilation. They are caused at the time of inadequate ventilation. As a result exchange of gas would very difficult. They cause increased concentration or presence of carbon dioxide and respiratory acidosis. However respiratory depression is very dangerous for persons who are suffering with sleeping disorders. They are also caused by medicines and other medical conditions that affect the brain stem.
The side effects of medicines and drugs may also cause respiratory depression in a person. Some of the drugs like alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, GHB, sedatives and opiates when taken in excess are found to cause hypoventilation, They are life threatening which causes difficulty in breathing and the ultimate result is death, which is very fatal. Stimulants for respiration like nikethamide were used but were found to be ineffective hence an alternate remedy namely, the BIMU8 is now under investigation. It may successfully prove to be an effective treatment for respiratory depression. A depression group is one that helps those who are depressed through counselling and words of encouragement and support. They have all details and information regarding the forms of depression and their causes. It is found that treating depression and anxiety would be an initial step to overcome depression.