A generic label used for any of several classes of
drugs, all of which have one or more of the following properties: antianxiety,
sedative, muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, antiagitation. Tranquilizers are
generally grouped into the minor tranquilizers, which are used primarily for the
treatment of anxiety, and the major tranquilizers, which are used for the more
serious psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.