What is the difference between thorazine, haldol, (haloperidol) and ativan?

Classes and Actions: Thorazine & Haldol are antipsychotic or neuroleptic medications. They are prescribed for psychosis and sometimes for agitation. An old name is major tranquilizer. They are not particularly fun to take. Ativan is a benzodiazapine, like are valium and xanax (alprazolam). They have been called minor tranquilizers, have sedative properties and can be abused and addictive. Ativan is used for anxiety and agitation.