Sedatives Infographic

Last Edited: February 26, 2020

Author
Patricia Howard, LMFT, CADC

Clinically Reviewed
Jim Brown, CDCA

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and certified by an addiction professional.

Tranquilizers (Sedatives) refer to drugs that categorize as CNS depressants that induce sedation, most commonly barbiturates (which are prescribed to treat seizures and for anesthesia before surgery) and benzodiazepines (used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders, as well as seizures). They are highly addictive and induce strong withdrawal symptoms once addicted. Like all CNS depressants, Sedatives slow down neurotransmitter activity in the brain. Visit the Sedative Page for more information.