What class of medications act as central nervous system depressants, commonly prescribed for anxiety and insomnia?

• A. Benzodiazepines
• B. Buprenorphine
• C. Agonist
• D. Alcohol use disorder

Answer: (A)

Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that act as central nervous system depressants and are commonly prescribed for anxiety and insomnia. They work by enhancing the inhibitory effect of GABA at the GABA-A receptor. When a benzodiazepine binds, it increases the probability that the chloride channel opens, making neurons more negatively charged and less likely to fire. This dampens overall brain activity, producing calming effects, reducing excessive anxiety, and helping with sleep onset and maintenance. Because of these actions, they’re frequently used for short- to medium-term relief of anxiety and sleep problems. However, they can cause dependence, tolerance, withdrawal, and daytime sedation, so they’re used with caution and typically for limited durations.

Other options don’t fit as well: buprenorphine is an opioid receptor partial agonist used for opioid use disorder and pain; “agonist” is a general pharmacology term, not a specific class for anxiety/insomnia; alcohol use disorder refers to a condition, not a prescribed medication class.