Anti-anxiety drugs and abuse

Definition

Anti-anxiety drugs, or "anxiolytics," are powerful central nervous system (CNS) depressants that can slow normal brain function. They are often prescribed to reduce feelings of tension and anxiety, and/or to bring about sleep. Anti-anxiety medications are among the most abused drugs in the United States, obtained both legally, via prescription, and illegally, through the black market. These drugs are also known as sedatives.

Description

The drugs associated with this class of substancerelated disorders are the benzodiazepines [such as diazepam (Valium),

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