Canadian Medical Guide > Chemicals and Drugs > Central Nervous System Agents > Central Nervous System Depressants Terms and Definitions

Central Nervous System Depressants

Medical Definition:	A very loosely defined group of drugs that tend to reduce the activity of the central nervous system. The major groups included here are ethyl alcohol, anesthetics, hypnotics and sedatives, narcotics, and tranquilizing agents (antipsychotics and antianxiety agents).
Guide Notes:	GEN or unspecified; prefer specific groups or specific drugs; consider also CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM /drug eff or BRAIN /drug eff; DF: CNS DEPRESS

Central Nervous System Depressants Categories.

	Hypnotics and Sedatives - Drugs used to induce drowsiness or sleep or to reduce psychological excitement or anxiety.
	Narcotics - Originally, agents that caused somnolence or induced sleep; now, any derivative, natural or synthetic, of opium or morphine or any substance that has their effects. Narcotics have potent analgesic effects associated with significant changes in mood and behavior, and with the potential for dependence and tolerance following repeated administration. (Stedman, 25th ed)
	Tranquilizing Agents - A traditional grouping of drugs said to have a soothing or calming effect on mood, thought, or behavior. Included here are the ANTI-ANXIETY AGENTS (minor tranquilizers), ANTIMANIC AGENTS, and the ANTIPSYCHOTIC AGENTS (major tranquilizers). These drugs act by different mechanisms and are used for different therapeutic purposes.

Central Nervous System Depressants Medical Definitions and Terms

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