What is a common side effect of sedatives used in radiological procedures?

Drowsiness is a common side effect of sedatives used in radiological procedures because sedatives are specifically intended to relax patients and decrease anxiety during the imaging process. These medications function by depressing the central nervous system, leading to a state of sedation which can manifest primarily as drowsiness or sleepiness.

This sedative effect is particularly useful in radiology, where patients may need to remain still or calm for the duration of the imaging study. The use of sedatives helps facilitate this by ensuring the patient feels comfortable and relaxed.

In contrast, increased heart rate, hypertension, and hyperactivity are not typical responses to sedatives. Instead, these could be more indicative of stimulant use or an adverse reaction in some patients who might not respond well to sedatives. Understanding the basic pharmacological actions of sedatives helps clarify why drowsiness is an expected outcome during their use in medical procedures.