Benzodiazepines became widely available for medical purposes in the 1960s and replaced barbiturates in treatments of many conditions. Benzodiazepines proved themselves less prone to abuse than barbiturates, in addition to being safer — accidental overdose…

Benzodiazepines comprise the most frequently prescribed subclass of antianxiety agents. These agents, first introduced in the early 1960s, quickly replaced the use of barbiturates as the pharmacological approach to anxiety.

Recreational users should limit use of benzodiazepines to once a week or less to minimize problems. Every day use is discouraged because addiction and tolerance can become an issue (editor). The main actions of benzodiazepines (hypnotic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant,…

Depressants generally have the opposite effect of stimulants. Many depressants are used as sedatives or tranquilizers, terms often used as if they mean the same thing even though some experts would dispute such interchangeable usage of the terms sedative…