Final answer:
The two suffixes used to identify benzodiazepines are '-azepam' and '-azolam'. These medications affect the central nervous system and are used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia, with caution needed due to the risk of tolerance and dependence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The common suffixes used to identify benzodiazepines are -azepam and -azolam. These suffixes are part of the generic names of many drugs within the benzodiazepine class, which are widely prescribed for their anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), sedative, and anticonvulsant properties. Examples of benzodiazepines include Alprazolam (Xanax), Lorazepam (Ativan), and Diazepam (Valium). These medications impact the central nervous system to produce their effects, and they are used to treat conditions such as anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia.
These drugs should be prescribed and used with care due to the potential for tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, they may be used in combination with antidepressants to help manage anxiety disorders while the antidepressants take effect. Benzodiazepines differ in their duration of action; short half-life benzodiazepines like Lorazepam are helpful for treating acute anxiety symptoms, while others may have a longer duration of action.
It's important to note the risk associated with benzodiazepines which includes withdrawal symptoms and the potential for rebound syndrome if the medicine is discontinued abruptly. Despite the risks, when used responsibly under the guidance of a healthcare professional, benzodiazepines can be effective in managing symptoms of anxiety and related disorders.