title: Rational use of sedative/hypnotics.
abstract: Among medications targeted at the central nervous system, sedative/hypnotics are the most widely prescribed. The use of sedative/hypnotics is reviewed in the context of historical influences on prescribing practice and from a current neuroscience perspective. Recommendations are made regarding appropriate applications for these drugs, and the principles for choosing one drug over another are emphasized.
mesh_terms: D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D001143:Arousal / Q000187:drug effects; D001463:Barbiturates / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011409:Propylene Glycols / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007319:Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D001463:Barbiturates; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D011409:Propylene Glycols; D001569:Benzodiazepines