Tranquilizer

Tranquilizer: In pharmacology, a drug that calms and relieves anxiety. The first tranquilizer, chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride (brand name: Librium) received FDA approval in 1960.

Tranquillizers range in potency from mild to major, with increasing levels of drowsiness occurring as potency increases. They are prescribed for a wide variety of conditions, but are used primarily to treat anxiety and insomnia. Most tranquillizers are potentially addictive, particularly those in the benzodiazepine family.

See benzodiazepine tranquilizer.