https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.12144
Drug that calms and pacifies with minimal sedating or depressant effects.
Notes:
- A tranquilizer decreases anxiety (i.e., has anxiolytic properties) or agitation without necessarily decreasing awareness or wakefulness. Tranquilizers at higher dose may induce sleep.
- Minor tranquilizers are sedatives, examples of which include benzodiazepines, antihistamines, alcohol, cannabis, and chloral hydrate. Major tranquilizers include antipsychotic drugs and neuroleptics.