Placidyl is a sedative medication used to treat sleep disorders. It is also known by its generic name, ethchlorvynol, and is classified as a hypnotic drug. Ethchlorvynol is only available with a doctor's prescription and can only be used under medical supervision, as it has potent sedative effects. Some synonyms for Placidyl include sedatives, tranquilizers, and hypnotics. Other compounds that produce sedative effects similar to Placidyl include barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics. Anyone who uses Placidyl should be aware of its potential side effects, such as drowsiness, slowed breathing, and impaired cognitive function, and use the drug only as prescribed by a healthcare professional.