Benzodiazepines Overview

✔ What are they?
Medications that act on the central nervous system to produce a calming effect, often used for anxiety, insomnia, muscle relaxation, and seizures.

✔ How to recognize them?
Common examples include diazepam, lorazepam, alprazolam, clonazepam, and temazepam—most end in "-pam" or "-lam."

✔ How do they work?
Enhance the effect of GABA (a neurotransmitter) → Slow down brain activity → Reduce anxiety, promote sleep, and relax muscles.

✔ Easy trick to remember:
"Benzo brings balance" (Helps calm the brain by boosting GABA).

✔ Common uses:

• Anxiety disorders

• Insomnia

• Seizure control

• Muscle spasms

• Alcohol withdrawal