Sedation

Sedation can be defined as the experience of decreased agitation, sensory input and alertness which occurs under the influence of certain drugs. Depending on the level of intensity, it results in feelings of general sleepiness and a loss of energy.

In terms of response to sensory input, sedation can broken down into 4 separate levels which are defined below:

1. Minimal Sedation - Normal response to verbal/tactile stimuli.
2. Moderate Sedation - Purposeful response to verbal/tactile stimulation. (This is usually referred to as "conscious sedation")
3. Deep Sedation - Purposeful response to repeated or painful stimulation.
4. General Anesthesia - Unarousable even with painful stimulus.

See also

• Psychedelics - Subjective effects
• Dissociatives - Subjective effects
• Deliriants - Subjective effects