Jul 6, 2022 · Hypnotics are a class of drugs that help people with sleep problems or insomnia to get restful sleep. There are five FDA approved types of hypnotic drugs used to treat insomnia and other sleep problems. Selective melatonin agonists, benzodiazepines, nonbenzodiazepines, an orexin receptor agonist, and antidepressants. There are many brand and generic names for each type of hypnotic. Side ... Anxiolytics are a class of medications aimed at treating patients with panic disorders, generalized anxiety, and various other uses. Sedatives(hypnotics) are a class of drugs used in different situations ranging from treating insomnia to treating someone connected to a mechanical ventilator. Both of these classes of medications have broad uses in various conditions and are effective when used ...Overview. Most anxiolytics (‘sedatives’) will induce sleep when given at night and most hypnotics will sedate when given during the day. Prescribing of these drugs is widespread but dependence (both physical and psychological) and tolerance occur. This may lead to difficulty in withdrawing the drug after the patient has been taking it ...Treatment with sedative hypnotics improves the quality of sleep, evaluated subjectively. The effect size (0.14) is small according to the classification by Cohen (in which a small effect size is about 0.2). 42 Sleep quality is a measure of efficacy for sleep medications and also a measure of patient satisfaction.Nov 14, 2022 · Sedatives, hypnotics, and anxiolytics use disorder is the chronic (> 12 months), problematic pattern of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use causing significant distress. These types of drugs subdue excitement, promote calm, or induce/maintain sleep Sleep A readily reversible suspension of sensorimotor interaction with the environment, usually ... Mar 29, 2021 · Sedatives, hypnotics, and anxiolytics (also known as depressants) slow down or “depresses” neurotransmission levels and reduce arousal/stimulation in various areas of the brain. The most common class of medications misused in this disorder are benzodiazepines (“benzos,” “downers,” “tranks,” “nerve pills”). Drug class: miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics. For consumers: dosage, interactions, side effects. For professionals: Prescribing Information. Expand current row for information about Desyrel Dividose Desyrel Dividose: 9.0May 1, 2000 · Sedative-hypnotics (or simply sedatives) all act directly or indirectly on GABA receptors. These drugs fall into three subgroups: barbiturates and barbiturate-like drugs, minor tranquilizers and ... Aug 22, 2023 · Nonbenzodiazepine Sedative Hypnotics and Risk of Fall-Related Injury. Sleep 2016; 39:1009. Thomas SJ, Sakhuja S, Colantonio LD, et al. Insomnia Diagnosis, Prescribed Hypnotic Medication Use, and Risk for Serious Fall Injuries In the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study. How do Sedative Hypnotics Work? Benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines bind to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptors. Gamma-aminobutyric acid is a neurotransmitter that slows the activity of nerves. Benzodiazepines reduce brain activity and cause sleep by increasing the effect of GABA. 1. A _____ is a drug that is intended to induce sleep by depressing the central nervous system. Antipsychotic. Pain killer. Anxiolytic. Sedative. Hypnotic. 2. A _____ is a drug that depresses the ...Selective histamine H1 antagonists are under development. 23 Sedative antidepressants such as trazodone, low-dose doxepin, and mirtazapine are also widely used as hypnotics, particularly in patients with insomnia and comorbid depression. 24 This use is unsupported by convincing controlled data. 25 Any antiarousal sleep-promoting effects are ...See full list on drugs.com Jul 6, 2022 · Hypnotics are a class of drugs that help people with sleep problems or insomnia to get restful sleep. There are five FDA approved types of hypnotic drugs used to treat insomnia and other sleep problems. Selective melatonin agonists, benzodiazepines, nonbenzodiazepines, an orexin receptor agonist, and antidepressants. There are many brand and generic names for each type of hypnotic. Side ... Apr 11, 2023 · If sedative/hypnotics have been administered for a long period of time then they should be discontinued slowly. Many of the older agents are seldom used nowadays because of their high risk of toxicity. Examples of severe side effects associated with some miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics include: Nonbenzodiazepine “Z-drugs” sedative-hypnotics are drugs that differ in structure from benzodiazepines, but acts on a subset of the benzodiazepine receptor family known as BZ1.Sep 4, 2015 · Sedatives and Hypnotics Madan Sigdel (M. Pharm.) Department of Pharmacology Gandaki Medical College. Sedatives: it is a drug that reduces excitement and calms the person Hypnotics is the drug that produces sleep resembling the normal sleep The sedatives and hypnotics are more or less general CNS depressants with some what differing time- action ... Jul 12, 2019 · Generally, sedatives cause physical depression, muscular relaxation and sedation; due to the varying types of sedatives, there is a range of other effects depending on which substance has been taken. Sedatives depress most body functions, so they greatly impact the ability to drive, operate machinery and participate in tasks requiring muscle ... Sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorder is a misuse of sedative, hypnotics, or anxiolytic substances. Sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics can be obtained legally and illegally. Addiction to these substances often occurs together with other drugs of abuse. This usually reflects an effort to counteract the effects of those other drugs. 1. A _____ is a drug that is intended to induce sleep by depressing the central nervous system. Antipsychotic. Pain killer. Anxiolytic. Sedative. Hypnotic. 2. A _____ is a drug that depresses the ...The main types of sedative-hypnotic drugs are as following: Benzodiazepines – This group of sedatives works by enhancing the neurotransmitter GABA. Eventually, this could induce the muscle relaxant properties of the benzodiazepine drugs.Sedatives are drugs that can be used to calm down, treat sleep disorders, and as a general anesthetic in high doses. ... Antidepressants, anxiolytics, and hypnotics in pregnancy and lactation. DOI ...Apr 13, 2021 · Abstract. Hypnotics are drugs that are intended to promote or improve sleep. Despite this clear definition, it is often not possible to exactly assign drugs to this group because the distinctions between sedatives, tranquilizers, and hypnotics are diffuse. None of the substances comes close to the “ideal” hypnotic, which exists only in theory. Mechanism of Action. Benzodiazepines, like alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin) and clonazepam) act on the central nervous system (CNS) and brain. They are known pharmacologically as GABAergic agents, sedative-hypnotics, or minor tranquilizers. Benzodiazepines work by enhancing a very important neurotransmitter called ... A: There are two main types of sedative-hypnotics – benzodiazepines and Z-drugs. Common benzodiazepines include Xanax (alprazolam), Librium (chlordiazepoxide), Valium (diazepam), and Ativan (lorazepam). Common Z-drugs include Ambien (zolpidem), Lunesta (eszopiclone), and Sonata (zaleplon).Non-Benzodiazepine Sedative Hypnotics. The non-benzodiazepine sedative hypnotics are a newer class of sedative drugs and include zolpidem (e.g., Ambien ®), zaleplon (e.g., Sonata ®), zopiclone (e.g., Imovane ®), and eszopiclone (e.g., Lunesta ®). Often referred to as the ‘Z-drugs,’ these compounds have a different chemical structure to ...What are Anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics? Anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics are medicines that work on the central nervous system to relieve anxiety , aid sleep, or have a calming effect. The benzodiazepines are the main class of drugs that fit into this category.Sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorder is a misuse of sedative, hypnotics, or anxiolytic substances. Sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics can be obtained legally and illegally. Addiction to these substances often occurs together with other drugs of abuse. This usually reflects an effort to counteract the effects of those other drugs. Sedatives and hypnotics are considered sisters because they both induce drowsiness in patients. Hypnotics induce sleep that is electroencephalographically similar to natural sleep, whereas sedatives induce calmness in the recipient and moderate excitement to the point where the patient cannot be easily aroused.May 1, 2000 · Sedative-hypnotics (or simply sedatives) all act directly or indirectly on GABA receptors. These drugs fall into three subgroups: barbiturates and barbiturate-like drugs, minor tranquilizers and ... The main types of sedative-hypnotic drugs are as following: Benzodiazepines – This group of sedatives works by enhancing the neurotransmitter GABA. Eventually, this could induce the muscle relaxant properties of the benzodiazepine drugs.Apr 11, 2023 · If sedative/hypnotics have been administered for a long period of time then they should be discontinued slowly. Many of the older agents are seldom used nowadays because of their high risk of toxicity. Examples of severe side effects associated with some miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics include: Jul 2, 2023 · Anxiolytic and Hypnotic Drugs. Anxiolytic-hypnotics agents are used to alter an individual’s responses to environmental stimuli. These agents are referred to as anxiolytics (prevent feelings of tension or fear ), sedatives (help patient feel calm and unaware of their environment), and hypnotics (help patients sleep ). Aug 5, 2016 · Side Effects of Sedatives. The effects of using sedatives can resemble those of alcohol. In addition to their desired calming effects, sedative use can cause: Drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion ... A sedative or tranquilliser [note 1] is a substance that induces sedation by reducing irritability [1] or excitement. [2] They are CNS depressants and interact with brain activity causing its deceleration. Various kinds of sedatives can be distinguished, but the majority of them affect the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).Side Effects of Sedatives. The effects of using sedatives can resemble those of alcohol. In addition to their desired calming effects, sedative use can cause: Drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion ...Mar 14, 2021 · A sedative is a drug which reduces activity and alertness by producing a calming effect on the subject. A hypnotic is a drug which induces drowsiness and promotes sleep onset and maintenance. The subject can be easily aroused from the state of sleep induced by a hypnotic. Both sedatives and hypnotics are CNS depressants. Aug 13, 2019 · These hypnotics should we used with caution in older adults and for no longer than 90 days, even if eszopiclone is approved for prolonged use. Particular caution should be used in patient with dementia, according to a Cochrane systematic review, there is a lack of randomized controlled trials of benoziazepine or non-benzodiazepine hypnotics in ... May 10, 2023 · Hypnotics. Although various drugs that fall under the umbrella of “sedatives” will differ greatly, many share the ability to create a sense of calm and drowsiness. 1 This is why sedatives, depending on the specific medication being used, are often prescribed for anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders. 1. Prescription Sedative Drugs Hypnotic. A drug that induces and/or maintains sleep, similar to normal arousable sleep. This is not to be confused with ‘hypnosis’ meaning a trans-like state in which the subject becomes passive and highly suggestible. The sedatives and hypnotics are more or less general CNS depressants with somewhat differing time action and dose action ... Mar 6, 2018 · Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants are medicines that include sedatives, tranquilizers, and hypnotics. These drugs can slow brain activity, making them useful for treating anxiety, panic, acute stress reactions, and sleep disorders. CNS depressants cause drowsiness; sedatives are often prescribed to treat sleep disorders like insomnia and ... Overview. Most anxiolytics (‘sedatives’) will induce sleep when given at night and most hypnotics will sedate when given during the day. Prescribing of these drugs is widespread but dependence (both physical and psychological) and tolerance occur. This may lead to difficulty in withdrawing the drug after the patient has been taking it ...Abstract. Hypnotics are drugs that are intended to promote or improve sleep. Despite this clear definition, it is often not possible to exactly assign drugs to this group because the distinctions between sedatives, tranquilizers, and hypnotics are diffuse. None of the substances comes close to the “ideal” hypnotic, which exists only in theory.Sedative hypnotics include benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and various hypnotics. Benzodiazepines such as Ativan, Librium, Valium, and Xanax are anti-anxiety medications. They also increase ... Sedative, hypnotic and/or anxiolytic withdrawal; Sedative, hypnotic and/or anxiolytic withdrawal delirium; Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic withdrawal; Sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic withdrawal; ICD-10-CM F13.239 is grouped within Diagnostic Related Group(s) (MS-DRG v 40.0): 791 Prematurity with major problems; 793 Full term neonate with ... Abnormal thinking and behavior: Sedative-hypnotics like benzodiazepines can cause strange thoughts or behaviors, including hallucinations or even complex behaviors like sleepwalking or trying to drive while partly asleep. Worsening of depression: Some people may experience a worsening of symptoms of depression when taking benzodiazepines.Sep 6, 2023 · The sedative-hypnotics belong to a chemically heterogeneous class of drugs, almost all of which produce dose-dependent CNS depressant effects.A major subgroup is the benzodiazepines, but representatives of other subgroups, including barbiturates, and miscellaneous agents (carbamates, alcohols, and cyclic ethers) are still in use. Hypnotic drugs, therefore, may be contraindicated in patients with or at risk of depression. Hypnotics were found to be more likely to cause depression than to help it. Studies have found that long-term users of sedative hypnotic drugs have a markedly raised suicide risk as well as an overall increased mortality risk.Jan 10, 2022 · Sedative-, hypnotic-, or anxiolytic- (SHA-) related disorders include SHA intoxication, SHA withdrawal, and SHA-use disorder. These disorders result from abuse of a class of medications known as ... See full list on drugs.com Selective histamine H1 antagonists are under development. 23 Sedative antidepressants such as trazodone, low-dose doxepin, and mirtazapine are also widely used as hypnotics, particularly in patients with insomnia and comorbid depression. 24 This use is unsupported by convincing controlled data. 25 Any antiarousal sleep-promoting effects are ...Because prior studies that have examined cotherapy of sedative-hypnotics with SSRIs have excluded people at significant risk of suicide (9, 12), there is insufficient evidence to determine whether sedative-hypnotics alter the risk of suicide. This is an important area of investigation because clinicians are often unwilling to prescribe sedative ...Hypnotics Also known as nonbenzodiazepine sleep medications or Z-drugs, hypnotics are similar to benzodiazepines but cause fewer side effects. Doctors typically use hypnotics to treat sleep disorders.Sep 30, 2021 · Hypnotics Also known as nonbenzodiazepine sleep medications or Z-drugs, hypnotics are similar to benzodiazepines but cause fewer side effects. Doctors typically use hypnotics to treat sleep disorders. A sedative is a drug which reduces activity and alertness by producing a calming effect on the subject. A hypnotic is a drug which induces drowsiness and promotes sleep onset and maintenance. The subject can be easily aroused from the state of sleep induced by a hypnotic. Both sedatives and hypnotics are CNS depressants.Hypnotic and sedative medications (henceforth referred to as hypnotics) work, in general, by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals made and released by nerves that attach to receptors on other nerves and serve as a means of communication between nerves.Drugs used mainly to cause sleep are called hypnotics. The difference between sedatives and hypnotics, then, is usually the amount of the dose; lower doses have a calming effect and higher doses cause sleep . Recent studies have shown that herbal drugs exert good sedative and hypnotic effect on the central nervous system [4–6].A 2018 overview of sedatives and hypnotics states that this type of medication can be effective for short-term use, but it may make insomnia worse if used over a long period of time.Jul 29, 2022 · Barbiturates are sedative-hypnotics, a type of central nervous system (CNS) depressant used to treat insomnia, seizures, and headaches. Learn about side effects, dosages, drug interactions, warnings, and more. Hypnotic drugs, therefore, may be contraindicated in patients with or at risk of depression. Hypnotics were found to be more likely to cause depression than to help it. Studies have found that long-term users of sedative hypnotic drugs have a markedly raised suicide risk as well as an overall increased mortality risk.May 1, 2000 · Sedative-hypnotics (or simply sedatives) all act directly or indirectly on GABA receptors. These drugs fall into three subgroups: barbiturates and barbiturate-like drugs, minor tranquilizers and ... Antidepressants. Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant and is believed to exert sleep maintenance effects due to a strong binding affinity for histamine H1 receptors, which allows the use of the drug as a sedative at doses lower than those required for major depressive disorder. [39684] Nonbenzodiazepine Benzodiazepine-Receptor Agonists.If sedative/hypnotics have been administered for a long period of time then they should be discontinued slowly. Many of the older agents are seldom used nowadays because of their high risk of toxicity. Examples of severe side effects associated with some miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics include:Sedatives, hypnotics, and anxiolytics (also known as depressants) slow down or “depresses” neurotransmission levels and reduce arousal/stimulation in various areas of the brain. The most common class of medications misused in this disorder are benzodiazepines (“benzos,” “downers,” “tranks,” “nerve pills”).Mar 14, 2021 · A sedative is a drug which reduces activity and alertness by producing a calming effect on the subject. A hypnotic is a drug which induces drowsiness and promotes sleep onset and maintenance. The subject can be easily aroused from the state of sleep induced by a hypnotic. Both sedatives and hypnotics are CNS depressants. Treatment with sedative hypnotics improves the quality of sleep, evaluated subjectively. The effect size (0.14) is small according to the classification by Cohen (in which a small effect size is about 0.2). 42 Sleep quality is a measure of efficacy for sleep medications and also a measure of patient satisfaction.Non-Benzodiazepine Sedative Hypnotics. The non-benzodiazepine sedative hypnotics are a newer class of sedative drugs and include zolpidem (e.g., Ambien ®), zaleplon (e.g., Sonata ®), zopiclone (e.g., Imovane ®), and eszopiclone (e.g., Lunesta ®). Often referred to as the ‘Z-drugs,’ these compounds have a different chemical structure to ...Sedatives, hypnotics, and anxiolytics (also known as depressants) slow down or “depresses” neurotransmission levels and reduce arousal/stimulation in various areas of the brain. The most common class of medications misused in this disorder are benzodiazepines (“benzos,” “downers,” “tranks,” “nerve pills”).Sep 1, 2017 · Although sedative-hypnotic drugs undoubtedly seem to pose a hazard in driving safety, increased risk has been tentatively identified in certain users or medication-related behaviors, albeit with much uncertainty. Younger age [22, 28] and new use of benzodiazepines have been reported as additional risk factors in users of these medications. The sedative-hypnotics are highly sedating (with accompanying decreased response to pain), but they provide no direct analgesia. They may be given alone when pain control is not required. They may be supplemented with opioid analgesia (eg, fentanyl) or injectable regional or local anesthesia if needed.Benzodiazepines are frequently mixed with alcohol or used in the commission of a rape because of the possibility of memory loss and their sedative properties. Carisoprodol (Soma®) - Skeletal muscle relaxant with sedative-hypnotic effects. Also, marketed in combination with aspirin and codeine. Commonly abused in conjunction with opioids ...Diagnostic Criteria for Sedative,Hypnotic and Anxiolytic Use Disorder. The new diagnosis requires at least 2 of the following criteria. The disorder is mild if 2-3 criteria are met, moderate if 4-5 are present and severe with 6-7 or more. Continuing to use a substance, in this case a barbiturate, benzodiazepine or other sedative-hypnotic ... Hypnotics are a class of drugs that help people with sleep problems or insomnia to get restful sleep. There are five FDA approved types of hypnotic drugs used to treat insomnia and other sleep problems. Selective melatonin agonists, benzodiazepines, nonbenzodiazepines, an orexin receptor agonist, and antidepressants. There are many brand and generic names for each type of hypnotic. Side ...May 10, 2023 · Hypnotics. Although various drugs that fall under the umbrella of “sedatives” will differ greatly, many share the ability to create a sense of calm and drowsiness. 1 This is why sedatives, depending on the specific medication being used, are often prescribed for anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders. 1. Prescription Sedative Drugs Hypnotics. Although various drugs that fall under the umbrella of “sedatives” will differ greatly, many share the ability to create a sense of calm and drowsiness. 1 This is why sedatives, depending on the specific medication being used, are often prescribed for anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders. 1. Prescription Sedative DrugsFeb 18, 2021 · Sedative-Hypnotic drugs cause central nervous system depression and commonly result in somnolence, confusion, ataxia, slurred speech, and when taken in large quantities or mix with other drugs or ... Sedative-hypnotics are among the most commonly prescribed psychoactive drugs by primary care physicians. Approximately 4.6% of all Americans have used legally prescribed anxiolytics, sedatives, or hypnotics in the past 30 days. [ 10 ]Sedative hypnotics include benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and various hypnotics. Benzodiazepines such as Ativan, Librium, Valium, and Xanax are anti-anxiety medications. They also increase ...Sedative hypnotic drugs enhance the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. When prescribed in high doses, sedative hypnotics can repress the central nervous system and cause body systems to shut down. Short-term use of these drugs is encouraged because these drugs have high risk of misuse.
Mar 14, 2021 · A sedative is a drug which reduces activity and alertness by producing a calming effect on the subject. A hypnotic is a drug which induces drowsiness and promotes sleep onset and maintenance. The subject can be easily aroused from the state of sleep induced by a hypnotic. Both sedatives and hypnotics are CNS depressants. . M3gan showtimes near west wind sacramento 6 drive in
A: There are two main types of sedative-hypnotics – benzodiazepines and Z-drugs. Common benzodiazepines include Xanax (alprazolam), Librium (chlordiazepoxide), Valium (diazepam), and Ativan (lorazepam). Common Z-drugs include Ambien (zolpidem), Lunesta (eszopiclone), and Sonata (zaleplon).Sedatives are the drug which moderately depress the central nervous system (CNS), moderate the excitement and calm the recipient. The effect produced by sedatives is known as sedation. All hypnotics in lower doses act as sedatives. ADVERTISEMENTS: Both hypnotics and sedatives induce widespread depression of CNS, however, being mainly quantitative. Sedatives are the drug which moderately depress the central nervous system (CNS), moderate the excitement and calm the recipient. The effect produced by sedatives is known as sedation. All hypnotics in lower doses act as sedatives. ADVERTISEMENTS: Both hypnotics and sedatives induce widespread depression of CNS, however, being mainly quantitative.Antianxiety and sedative drugs are used with a variety of different psychiatric disorders, usually in combination with other medications. Different Types of Medications . Antianxiety and sedative medications can be divided into two broad classes of drugs: Antianxiety medications and sedative-hypnotics (the term hypnotic refers to sleep inducing).Hypnotics Also known as nonbenzodiazepine sleep medications or Z-drugs, hypnotics are similar to benzodiazepines but cause fewer side effects. Doctors typically use hypnotics to treat sleep disorders.Treatment of mild-to-moderate sedative-hypnotic withdrawal. The use of a long-acting barbiturate decreases the severity of withdrawal symptoms, and phenobarbital can be chosen in preference to other sedatives because of its longer half-life. Phenobarbital is a pharmaceutical that binds to the GABA-A receptor like benzodiazepines.Overview. Most anxiolytics (‘sedatives’) will induce sleep when given at night and most hypnotics will sedate when given during the day. Prescribing of these drugs is widespread but dependence (both physical and psychological) and tolerance occur. This may lead to difficulty in withdrawing the drug after the patient has been taking it ...Sedative hypnotic drugs enhance the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. When prescribed in high doses, sedative hypnotics can repress the central nervous system and cause body systems to shut down. Short-term use of these drugs is encouraged because these drugs have high risk of misuse.Sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorder is a misuse of sedative, hypnotics, or anxiolytic substances. Sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics can be obtained legally and illegally. Addiction to these substances often occurs together with other drugs of abuse. This usually reflects an effort to counteract the effects of those other drugs.Benzodiazepines are frequently mixed with alcohol or used in the commission of a rape because of the possibility of memory loss and their sedative properties. Carisoprodol (Soma®) - Skeletal muscle relaxant with sedative-hypnotic effects. Also, marketed in combination with aspirin and codeine. Commonly abused in conjunction with opioids ...Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like The CNS depressants include various prescription drugs referred to as A. GHBs. B. sedative-hypnotics. C. entheogens. D. catecholamines., Which of these is NOT one of the early sedative-hypnotics used in medicine? A. chloral hydrate B. paraldehyde C. butyrate D. bromide salts, What has kept paraldehyde from being widely used? A ...Sedative-hypnotic drugs — sometimes called "depressants" — and anxiolytic (antianxiety) drugs slow down the activity of the brain. Benzodiazepines ( Ativan, Halcion, Librium, Valium, Xanax, Rohypnol) are the best known. An older class of drugs, called barbiturates (Amytal, Nembutal, Seconal, phenobarbital) fit into this broad category.Anxiolytic and Hypnotic Drugs. Anxiolytic-hypnotics agents are used to alter an individual’s responses to environmental stimuli. These agents are referred to as anxiolytics (prevent feelings of tension or fear ), sedatives (help patient feel calm and unaware of their environment), and hypnotics (help patients sleep )..