Question

Mr. Ely takes an antihistamine and reports that it also has a mild, calming effect on him. His physician tells him that this is not at all unusual. The antianxiety effect of this drug is called a(n) __________

Answer 1

Mr. Ely's experience with the antihistamine is known as a depressant effect, with some antihistamines having sedating and anti-anxiety effects due to their action on the central nervous system.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mr. Ely's experience of a calming effect after taking an antihistamine is known as a depressant effect. This is because some antihistamines have the ability to act on the central nervous system, producing effects such as sedation, reduced anxiety, and even drowsiness. Specifically, H1-antihistamines, which are often used to treat allergy symptoms like itching, runny nose, and sneezing, can cross the blood-brain barrier and may result in sedative effects, including a reduction in anxiety.