Sedatives (lat. sedatio — sedation) — drugs that have a General calming effect on the Central nervous system. Sedative (calming) effect is to reduce the response to various external stimuli and a decrease in daily activity.

This group of drugs regulate the Central nervous system, strengthening the processes of braking or lowering the excitation. Typically, they facilitate the onset and deepen the natural sleep, enhance the effect of hypnotics, analgesics and other means, oppressive Central nervous system.