Which of the following is a benzodiazepine commonly used for anxiety?

Which of the following is a benzodiazepine commonly used for anxiety?

• A. Ativan
• B. Zoloft
• C. Paxil
• D. Haldol

Answer: (A)

Benzodiazepines are fast-acting anti-anxiety medications that boost the brain’s GABA activity to quickly reduce arousal. Ativan is the brand name for lorazepam, a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed for anxiety because of its reliable and quick calming effect. The other options aren’t benzodiazepines: Zoloft and Paxil are SSRIs used for longer-term treatment of anxiety and depression, not as short-term anxiolytics. Haldol is haloperidol, an antipsychotic used for psychosis or severe agitation, not an anti-anxiety benzodiazepine. So Ativan is the best answer because it directly fits the benzodiazepine class commonly used for anxiety. Remember that benzodiazepines require careful use due to dependence and withdrawal risks, and are typically used short term or PRN.

Benzodiazepines are fast-acting anti-anxiety medications that boost the brain’s GABA activity to quickly reduce arousal. Ativan is the brand name for lorazepam, a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed for anxiety because of its reliable and quick calming effect. The other options aren’t benzodiazepines: Zoloft and Paxil are SSRIs used for longer-term treatment of anxiety and depression, not as short-term anxiolytics. Haldol is haloperidol, an antipsychotic used for psychosis or severe agitation, not an anti-anxiety benzodiazepine. So Ativan is the best answer because it directly fits the benzodiazepine class commonly used for anxiety. Remember that benzodiazepines require careful use due to dependence and withdrawal risks, and are typically used short term or PRN.