Final answer:
Tranquilizers like Valium and Xanax are depressant psychoactive drugs that belong to the benzodiazepine class, used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation by enhancing the effects of GABA in the brain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tranquilizers, such as Valium and Xanax, are classified as depressant type of psychoactive drug that reduce anxiety and induce relaxation. These drugs are part of a class known as benzodiazepines, which include various medications like Alprazolam, Diazepam, Lorazepam, and others.
Benzodiazepines work by acting as agonists for the gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter system in the brain, leading to a calming effect. They have a range of therapeutic uses, including treating anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, as well as serving as muscle relaxants, anticonvulsants, and even in anesthesia.
While these drugs are effective in managing symptoms of anxiety and related conditions, they should be used under medical supervision due to potential risks such as addiction and overdose.