True or False: Withdrawal from barbiturates and alcohol carries a lower risk of death compared to other substances.

The statement that withdrawal from barbiturates and alcohol carries a lower risk of death compared to other substances is false. Barbiturates and alcohol are known to produce some of the most severe withdrawal symptoms among all substances, including potentially life-threatening conditions such as seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), and severe autonomic instability.

Withdrawal from these substances can result in complications that pose a significant risk to life. While other substances, such as opioids or stimulants, can lead to distressing withdrawal symptoms, they typically do not have the same level of mortality risk associated with withdrawal as barbiturates and alcohol. This is particularly notable in the context of alcohol dependence, where withdrawal symptoms can escalate quickly and become dangerous without proper medical intervention. Therefore, understanding the risks associated with withdrawal is crucial for individuals undergoing treatment or considering the cessation of these substances.