Tranquilizer is a drug that calms a person by acting on the nervous system. Tranquilizers belong to a group of drugs called antianxiety and hypnotic drugs. Such drugs formerly were referred to as depressants.
There are two types of tranquilizers–antipsychotic drugs and antianxiety drugs. Antipsychotic drugs are used to treat patients with psychoses (severe mental illnesses). Antianxiety drugs are used to treat various emotional problems, particularly anxiety.
Antipsychotic drugs include such drugs as chlorpromazine (commonly known by the trade name Thorazine), fluphenazine, and trifluoperazine. Physicians prescribe these drugs to treat schizophrenia, a mental illness that is characterized by illogical, unpredictable thinking. The drugs reduce the confusion and excitement experienced by the patient.
Antianxiety drugs include alprazolam, diazepam, and lorazepam, which are commonly known by the trade names Xanax, Valium, and Ativan, respectively. They relax the muscles and reduce tension. Physicians also use antianxiety drugs to calm children who must undergo surgery. In addition, these drugs are used to treat severe anxiety, shakiness, and other symptoms that occur during withdrawal from the effects of alcohol.
Some tranquilizers have undesirable side effects. For example, meprobamate (known by such trade names as Equanil and Miltown) may cause muscle weakness and general fatigue. Some people become addicted to tranquilizers. In addition, tranquilizers may cause drowsiness, especially if a person drinks alcoholic beverages before or after taking the drugs. A person should not drive a motor vehicle for several hours after taking a tranquilizer.