Sedative, Hypnotic, and Anxiolytic Drugs: A Review
Sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic drugs are medications used for their calming, relaxing, and anxiolytic effects. These drugs are used to treat a variety of conditions, including insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, and agitation. This article provides a review of the different types of sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic medications and their uses, as well as potential side effects and precautions.
Sedative drugs are used to reduce CNS activity and induce relaxation or sleep. These drugs are generally classified as barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and non-benzodiazepines. Barbiturates, such as phenobarbital, are used for the treatment of severe anxiety or insomnia. Benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam and diazepam, are commonly used to treat insomnia and anxiety. Non-benzodiazepines, such as zolpidem and eszopiclone, are considered safer alternatives to benzodiazepines and may be used in the treatment of insomnia.
Hypnotic drugs are used to induce and maintain sleep. These drugs are typically classified as benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepines, and melatonin receptor agonists. Benzodiazepines, such as temazepam and lorazepam, are used to treat insomnia. Non-benzodiazepines, such as zaleplon and zolpidem, are used to treat insomnia and may be safer alternatives to benzodiazepines. Melatonin receptor agonists, such as ramelteon, are used to treat insomnia and may be associated with fewer side effects than benzodiazepines.
Anxiolytic drugs are used to reduce anxiety and fear. These drugs are generally classified as benzodiazepines, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and buspirone. Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam and clonazepam, are used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. SSRIs, such as citalopram and sertraline, are used to treat depression and anxiety and may be associated with fewer side effects than benzodiazepines. Buspirone is a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic drug used to treat anxiety.
In conclusion, sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic drugs are medications used to treat a variety of conditions, such as insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, and agitation. These drugs can be divided into different categories, including barbiturates, benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepines, melatonin receptor agonists, SSRIs, and buspirone. Although these medications can be effective in treating various conditions, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM-5 (5th ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.
Johnston, J., & Lineberry, C. (2017). Drug therapy in nursing (4th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis.
Kasper, D., Fauci, A., Hauser, S., Longo, D., Jameson, J., & Loscalzo, J. (Eds.). (2015). Harrison’s principles of internal medicine (19th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.