Question

The ________ drugs such as Xanax, Librium, Valium, and Serax provide short-term relief from anxiety symptoms but have side effects and addictiveness that preclude long-term use.

Option 1: Antipsychotic
Option 2: Antidepressant
Option 3: Anxiolytic benzodiazepine
Option 4: Mood stabilizer

Answer 1

The correct term is anxiolytic benzodiazepines, which provide short-term anxiety relief but have potential for addiction and withdrawal, making long-term use inadvisable.

Step-by-step explanation:

The drugs mentioned in the question, such as Xanax, Librium, Valium, and Serax, are known as anxiolytic benzodiazepines. These medications are commonly prescribed for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. Benzodiazepines work as agonists of the gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter system, which has a calming effect on the brain. While effective for managing acute anxiety, these drugs come with potential side effects including sedation, muscle relaxation, and a risk of developing tolerance or dependence if used long-term. Consequently, despite their efficacy, the potential for addiction and the occurrence of withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation make their long-term use less favorable for treating anxiety.