What effect does taking Seconal in combination with which drug cause a "potentiation" of effect?

Taking Seconal in combination with alcohol leads to potentiation of effects, which means that the combined effect of the two substances is greater than the sum of their individual effects. Seconal is a barbiturate that depresses the central nervous system, and alcohol also has a similar depressant effect. When these two substances are taken together, they can enhance sedation, respiratory depression, and impair cognitive functions to a more significant extent than if either substance were taken alone. This creates a heightened risk of severe side effects, including overdose.

In contrast, amphetamines and cocaine are stimulants, which would have the opposite effect when combined with Seconal, potentially leading to unpredictable reactions. Opiates, while also depressants, do not have the same level of interaction with Seconal as alcohol does, and combining them would not typically result in the same potentiation seen with alcohol. Therefore, the combination of Seconal and alcohol stands out as particularly hazardous due to the significant additive effects on the central nervous system.