sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic drug
any of a group of CNS depressants that have been developed for therapeutic use because of their calming effect (i.e., sedative) and ability to induce sleep (i.e., hypnotic) and reduce anxiety (i.e., anxiolytic). They include the barbiturates, meprobamate, and the benzodiazepines. At low doses, these drugs are prescribed for daytime use to reduce anxiety; at higher doses, many of the same drugs are prescribed as sleeping pills. Although efficacious when used sparingly, over the long term all induce marked tolerance, and cessation of use can precipitate potentially life-threatening withdrawal phenomena. Acute abuse can yield dangerous intoxication effects, and chronic abuse can cause a range of serious, irreversible conditions.