Final answer:
The antidote for benzodiazepines is flumazenil, a specific benzodiazepine receptor antagonist used to reverse their effects in cases of overdose.
Step-by-step explanation:
The antidote for benzodiazepines is flumazenil. Flumazenil is a specific benzodiazepine receptor antagonist that is used to reverse the sedative, hypnotic, and overdose effects of benzodiazepines. It can be administered in a hospital setting where the patient's response to the medication can be closely monitored.
Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax®), diazepam (Valium®), and lorazepam (Ativan®), are central nervous system depressants prescribed for sedation, sleep induction, seizure prevention, and anxiety relief. Benzodiazepines' therapeutic effects are due to their action on the central nervous system. When combined with other CNS depressants like alcohol or opioids, the risk of overdose increases significantly. Flumazenil is administered in cases of benzodiazepine overdose to counteract these effects and prevent potentially life-threatening complications.