Which of the following is not a correct statement regarding chloral hydrate?

The statement indicating that the main abuse of chloral hydrate is by young adults is not correct. Chloral hydrate, while historically significant as a sedative-hypnotic, has seen a marked decline in its use and is far less commonly abused compared to other substances, particularly among specific demographics.

The correct assertions about chloral hydrate highlight its historical context and formulation. It is indeed recognized as one of the earliest hypnotic drugs, which places it in a significant historical framework for sleep-inducing medications. The reference to its availability in liquid form and soft gelatin capsules speaks to its practical applications in therapeutic settings, albeit that is not the most common method of administration today. The statement regarding its decreased popularity following the emergence of barbiturates accurately reflects the evolution of pharmacological treatments for insomnia and anxiety.

Overall, the reason why the assertion about young adults is inaccurate lies in the contemporary landscape of substance abuse, where younger populations tend to gravitate more towards other, more prevalent drugs rather than chloral hydrate, which has fallen out of favor.