A broad term referring to substances that alter mood, behaviour, perception, or mental processes by acting on the central nervous system. Psychotropic drugs include stimulants, hallucinogens, sedatives, tranquillisers, and hypnotics.
In a clinical context, the term may also describe medications used to treat mental health conditions, such as antidepressants, antianxiety agents, mood stabilisers, and antipsychotics.
In international drug control, psychotropic substances are those regulated under the 1971 UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Psychotropic drugs differ from narcotics, which primarily act as pain relievers (narcotic analgesics).
Sources: HRB