Final answer:
Signs of sedative/hypnotic toxidrome include central nervous system depression characterized by sluggishness, incoordination, and difficulty in thinking, among other symptoms. Classes of drugs causing this condition include barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opiates, alcohol, non-benzodiazepine sleep aids, and certain antipsychotics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The signs and symptoms of a sedative/hypnotic toxidrome include sluggishness, incoordination, difficulty in thinking, slowness of speech, faulty judgement, drowsiness, shallow breathing, staggering, and in severe cases, coma or death. These symptoms reflect the central nervous system depression that typifies this type of toxidrome.
Six classes of drugs that can cause a sedative/hypnotic toxidrome include:
- Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital)
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax)
- Opiates (e.g., heroin)
- Alcohol
- Non-benzodiazepine sleep aids (e.g., Z-drugs)
- Certain antipsychotics
These substances can create significant health risks, particularly with high doses or when combined with other depressants.