antianxiety drug

noun

Meaning

A pharmaceutical medication designed to reduce feelings of tension, nervousness, or psychological distress.

Examples

  • Many patients find that taking an antianxiety drug provides the stability needed to attend therapy sessions effectively.
  • The psychiatrist carefully monitored the dosage of the antianxiety drug to minimize potential side effects like drowsiness.

Synonyms: anxiolytic, tranquilizer, sedative, calmative