What is a common use of phenobarbital in substance abuse treatment?

Phenobarbital is commonly used in substance abuse treatment, particularly for detoxifying patients from alcohol and benzodiazepines. This barbiturate has sedative properties and acts on the central nervous system by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps to calm the brain's activity and reduce anxiety.

During detoxification, especially for individuals experiencing withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines, symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe complications, including seizures. Phenobarbital is effective in stabilizing the nervous system and providing a safer withdrawal process, thus reducing the risk of complications.

The other options, while relevant to various aspects of substance use treatment, do not accurately represent the primary role of phenobarbital. It is not typically used to enhance drug metabolism, reduce withdrawal symptoms from stimulants, or improve cognitive function directly. Instead, its primary utilization in this context focuses on managing withdrawal symptoms from specific substances where safety and stabilization are critical.