1. A class of psychoactive drugs that act as central nervous system depressants, commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures.
Usage: plural form; singular is benzodiazepine; medical/pharmaceutical term; often abbreviated as benzos in informal contexts

Examples

• Benzodiazepines are frequently prescribed to help patients manage anxiety disorders.
• The doctor warned about the potential for dependence when taking benzodiazepines long-term.
• Common benzodiazepines include diazepam and lorazepam.
• Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain.
• Patients should not abruptly stop taking benzodiazepines without medical supervision.
• The use of benzodiazepines for sleep problems has declined due to concerns about addiction.