Final answer:
The use of opioids, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines leads to a decrease in ventilatory drive. Volatile anesthetics also decrease ventilatory drive but are monitored to ensure adequate breathing during surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The change in ventilatory drive that occurs with the use of opioids, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines (BZD) versus volatile anesthetics is a decrease in ventilatory drive. These substances are central nervous system depressants that can lead to a reduction in both the respiratory rate and the tidal volume, meaning that fewer breaths are taken and each breath contains less air. In contrast, volatile anesthetics delivered through inhalation, such as with an anesthesia machine, also suppress the ventilatory drive to varying degrees depending on the specific agent and dose used.
In summary, opioids, barbiturates, and BZDs tend to have a sedative effect on the respiratory centers of the brain, reducing the natural drive to breathe, especially when used in combination or overdose. Volatile anesthetics also decrease the ventilatory drive but are typically administered in a controlled manner with monitoring to maintain adequate ventilation during surgery.