Definition

Noun: A type of medication, specifically a tranquilizer, used to relieve symptoms of anxiety, reduce tension, and lessen irritability.

Usage

This term is used in medical and pharmacological contexts to refer to a class of psychoactive drugs prescribed for the treatment of anxiety disorders. It describes the drug's primary function.

Examples

• The doctor prescribed an antianxiety drug to help manage her chronic worry and nervousness.
• Common side effects of some antianxiety drugs include drowsiness and dizziness.
• He was advised not to consume alcohol while taking the antianxiety drug.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contrast to antidepressants or antipsychotics, highlighting its specific application for anxiety symptoms.
• In formal medical writing, it may be part of discussions on treatment protocols: "First-line pharmacotherapy often involves a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or a benzodiazepine, which is a fast-acting antianxiety drug."

Variants and Related Words

• Anxiolytic (noun/adjective): A more technical synonym for an antianxiety drug or its effect.
• Tranquilizer (noun, especially ): A broader term that can include antianxiety drugs.
• Benzodiazepine (noun): A common class of drugs that function as antianxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam, alprazolam).

Synonyms

• Anxiolytic
• Anti-anxiety agent
• Minor tranquilizer

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Antianxiety medication: A very common alternative phrasing with identical meaning.
• Antianxiety effect: Refers to the therapeutic outcome of the drug.

Noun

1. a tranquilizer used to relieve anxiety and reduce tension and irritability