Acting on the central nervous system to produce sleep
n. a drug that has a calming effect, relieving anxiety and tension. Sedatives are *hypnotic drugs administered at lower doses than those needed for sleep (drowsiness is a common side-effect). See also anxiolytic.
an agent which reduces functional activity; calming.
A group of drugs used to produce sedation. Sedative drugs include sleeping drugs, antianxiety drugs, antipsychotic drugs, and some antidepressant drugs. A sedative drug is often included in a premedication.... sedative drugs
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