chloral hydrate

chloral hydrate (klōrˈəl hĪˈdrāt) [key], central nervous system depressant that is widely used as a hypnotic, or sleep-inducing drug. Chloral hydrate is the common ingredient, along with alcohol, in what are popularly known as knockout drops or Mickey Finns; the combination can induce acute intoxication and coma.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.