Which type of medication is not typically used in sedation practice?

Corticosteroids are not typically used in sedation practice primarily because they do not possess sedative properties. Their main functions involve anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, which are crucial in managing conditions like allergies, asthma, or autoimmune diseases, but they do not enhance sedation or provide analgesic benefits. In contrast, alpha-2 receptor agonists, opioids, and anesthetics are specifically utilized in sedation practices due to their ability to induce relaxation, manage pain, and facilitate patient comfort during procedures.

Alpha-2 receptor agonists, such as dexmedetomidine, provide sedation without significant respiratory depression, making them suitable for moderate sedation. Opioids are widely recognized for their potent analgesic properties combined with sedative effects, and anesthetics are directly involved in achieving the desired level of sedation. Therefore, corticosteroids do not fit within the common pharmacological agents used during sedation processes, reinforcing their distinction from the other drug categories mentioned.