Final answer:
Buspirone is the drug that effectively treats anxiety like benzodiazepines but without the high risk of abuse and the intensifying effects on CNS depressants. It is considered safer for long-term use in anxiety management due to its lower potential for dependence compared to benzodiazepines such as alprazolam, lorazepam, and diazepam.
Step-by-step explanation:
The drug used to treat anxiety that is as effective as benzodiazepines without the abuse potential and does not intensify the effects of CNS depressants is buspirone. Unlike benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and diazepam (Valium), which have a high potential for dependence and abuse, buspirone is considered to have a lower risk of dependence. Benzodiazepines work as central nervous system depressants and are often prescribed for anxiety disorders, but due to their sedative effects and potential for abuse, alternatives like buspirone are often sought. Buspirone has anxiolytic properties similar to that of benzodiazepines but does not exhibit the muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, or sedative effects as strongly, making it a safer option for long-term management of anxiety without the heightened risk of abuse.