Which drug class is commonly prescribed to help manage anxiety associated with substance withdrawal?

Which drug class is commonly prescribed to help manage anxiety associated with substance withdrawal?

• A. Antidepressants
• B. Benzodiazepines
• C. Beta-blockers
• D. Antipsychotics

Answer: (B)

Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to help manage anxiety associated with substance withdrawal due to their sedative and anxiolytic properties. They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which leads to a calming effect. This is particularly important during withdrawal from substances such as alcohol and certain sedatives, where anxiety and agitation are prevalent symptoms. In cases of alcohol withdrawal, for example, benzodiazepines not only help alleviate anxiety but also reduce the risk of more severe withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures and delirium tremens. Their rapid onset of action makes them useful for addressing acute anxiety, which is often a component of withdrawal syndromes. Other drug classes mentioned have different primary uses: antidepressants are primarily used for mood disorders, beta-blockers are more focused on physical symptoms of anxiety and hypertension, and antipsychotics are utilized for managing severe mental health conditions rather than specifically for anxiety related to withdrawal.

Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to help manage anxiety associated with substance withdrawal due to their sedative and anxiolytic properties. They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which leads to a calming effect. This is particularly important during withdrawal from substances such as alcohol and certain sedatives, where anxiety and agitation are prevalent symptoms.

In cases of alcohol withdrawal, for example, benzodiazepines not only help alleviate anxiety but also reduce the risk of more severe withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures and delirium tremens. Their rapid onset of action makes them useful for addressing acute anxiety, which is often a component of withdrawal syndromes.

Other drug classes mentioned have different primary uses: antidepressants are primarily used for mood disorders, beta-blockers are more focused on physical symptoms of anxiety and hypertension, and antipsychotics are utilized for managing severe mental health conditions rather than specifically for anxiety related to withdrawal.