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Sedative-Hypnotics

Meaning

Sedative-hypnotics are a class of central nervous system depressant drugs specifically designed to induce calmness, reduce anxiety, and promote sleep. Sedatives primarily reduce excitement and anxiety without causing sleep, while hypnotics induce drowsiness and facilitate the onset and maintenance of sleep. Many agents, such as benzodiazepines and Z-drugs, exhibit both effects depending on the dose administered.