Tranquilizers

Tranquilization

A state of calmness without loss of consciousness.

Sedation

Decreased mental and physical activity and may lead to profound CNS depression with increased doses.

Phenothiazine derivatives

A class of tranquilizers that primarily work by dopamine blockade.

Benzodiazepine derivatives

A class of tranquilizers that act as CNS inhibitors.

Alpha 2-agonists

A class of tranquilizers known for their reliable sedation and analgesia.

Neuroleptanalgesia

The combination of an opioid and a tranquilizer.

Acepromazine

A phenothiazine derivative used for sedation and as an antiemetic.

Dopamine blockade

The mechanism by which phenothiazine derivatives cause sedation.

Liver

The organ that metabolizes most phenothiazines.

Kidneys

The organ that excretes most phenothiazines.

Flumazenil

The reversal agent for benzodiazepine derivatives like diazepam and midazolam.

Paradoxical excitation

A possible adverse reaction where sedation instead causes agitation.

Detomidine

An alpha 2-agonist used for analgesia and preanesthetic sedation.

Tolazine

The reversal agent for xylazine.

Yohimbine

A reversal agent for medetomidine and detomidine.

Dexmedetomidine

A more potent alpha 2-agonist used for sedation and analgesia.

Romifidine

An alpha 2-agonist approved for use in horses, acting as an analgesic and sedative.

Atipamezole

A reversal agent for medetomidine and dexmedetomidine.

Common adverse effects of acepromazine

Includes hypotension, hypothermia, and penile prolapse in horses.

Clinical use of diazepam

Includes use as an anesthetic induction, anticonvulsant, and to stimulate appetite.

Controlled substances

Drugs categorized by the DEA, including diazepam and alprazolam as schedule IV.

Anxiolytic qualities of benzodiazepines

Used in treating anxiety disorders and for sedation.

Antiemetic effects of phenothiazines

Result from dopamine antagonism at the chemoreceptor trigger zone.

Adverse effects of xylazine

Can include muscle tremors, bradycardia, and paradoxical agitation.