Quaaludes are a central nervous system (CNS) depressant.

• Examples of other CNS depressants include meprobamate, diazepam (Valium) and gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB).
• Overdose of methaqualone can lead to seizures, coma or death.

The range of dangerous doses vary widely. Because these drugs are made in illegal labs, the strength and contents of the actual product may not be known, putting the user at even higher risk.

Taking doses of over 300 mg can be dangerous for first-time users. Quaalude doses of about 8,000 mg per day can be fatal, but depend upon the state of the user's tolerance.

Death can result at much lower doses if Quaaludes are taken with alcohol (ethanol), which is also a central nervous system depressant. "Luding out" where Quaaludes were taken with wine, became a popular college pastime in the 70's.