Hypnotics and anxiolytics

 Hypnotics and anxiolytics are types of medications used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. Here are examples of both:

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Hypnotics (Sleep Aids)

These are medications that induce sleep or sedation:

1. Benzodiazepines (also used as anxiolytics)

   • Temazepam (Restoril)
   • Triazolam (Halcion)

2. Non-benzodiazepine hypnotics ("Z-drugs")

   • Zolpidem (Ambien)
   • Zaleplon (Sonata)
   • Eszopiclone (Lunesta)

3. Melatonin Receptor Agonists

   • Ramelteon (Rozerem)

4. Antihistamines (used off-label for sleep)

   • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Sominex)
   • Doxylamine (Unisom)

5. Orexin Receptor Antagonists

   • Suvorexant (Belsomra)

Anxiolytics (Anti-anxiety medications)

These help reduce anxiety and may also have sedative effects:

1. Benzodiazepines

   • Alprazolam (Xanax)
   • Lorazepam (Ativan)
   • Diazepam (Valium)
   • Clonazepam (Klonopin)

2. Non-benzodiazepine Anxiolytics

   • Buspirone (Buspar)

3. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

   • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
   • Sertraline (Zoloft)

4. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

   • Venlafaxine (Effexor)
   • Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

5. Beta Blockers (used for situational anxiety)

   • Propranolol (Inderal)

6. Antihistamines (used off-label for anxiety)

   • Hydroxyzine (Vistaril)

Both hypnotics and anxiolytics should be used cautiously due to the potential for dependence or side effects.