The anxiolytics and sedative-hypnotics are drugs that have depressant effects on the central nervous system (CNS). They currently rank among the most prescribed drugs in the world.¹ The hypnotics cause sleep to occur, while the anxiolytics and sedatives induce relaxation. The effects of these drugs are controlled by their dosages. Small doses of hypnotics can cause sedation, while high doses of the anxiolytics and sedatives can cause sleep. The barbiturates were previously used as anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics but have been mostly replaced by the benzodiazepines, which are considered to be safer.¹ Both groups of drugs have been discussed previously in Chapter 18, and the reader should refer to that chapter for information on them. A third group of miscellaneous drugs that also effect sleep, sedation, and anxiety will be mentioned.