Final Answer:
Drugs that induce sleep are commonly known as d) Barbiturates. The correct answer is (d) Barbiturates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Barbiturates are a class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants, leading to sedation and sleep induction. These substances enhance the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which inhibits neuronal activity, resulting in a calming effect. Barbiturates have a long history of use as sleep-inducing medications, but their widespread use has diminished due to the development of safer alternatives with fewer side effects.
Barbiturates work by binding to specific sites on the GABA-A receptors, which are ionotropic receptors responsible for the majority of inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. The binding of barbiturates increases the duration of GABA-mediated chloride channel openings, causing hyperpolarization and inhibiting neuronal firing. This leads to a reduction in brain activity, producing a sedative effect that can induce sleep. It's important to note that while barbiturates can be effective in promoting sleep, they also carry a risk of tolerance, dependence, and overdose, making them less favored in modern medicine.
In summary, the term "drugs that induce sleep" refers to substances with sedative properties, such as barbiturates. Understanding the pharmacological mechanisms behind these drugs sheds light on their role in sleep regulation and the caution required in their use due to potential side effects and risks associated with their prolonged or misuse.
The correct answer is (d) Barbiturates.