Definition of "sedative-hypnotic" []

• A drug, such as a barbiturate or antianxiety agent, that depresses the activity of the central nervous system and is used to relieve anxiety and induce sleep. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "This may include an opiate and sedative-hypnotic abstinence syndrome once the combination is discontinued."
• "Benzodiazepines, sedative-hypnotic drugs that include Xanax and Valium 929 deaths."
• "Food and Drug Administration last year to require that Ambien, Lunesta and other "sedative-hypnotic" drugs carry strong warnings."