Benzodiazepine anxiolytics: demand are they today?

Abstract

Provides an overview of the studies of efficacy and safety benzodiazepine tranquilizers (BT) for anxiety syndrome and certain anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder and anxiety-depressive state. Presents brief information on GABA-ergic system as targets of action of BT, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic performance of this group of drugs. Detail numerous clinical effects of BT, including side effects and addiction. Much of the article is devoted to practical aspects of the use of BT in the integrated treatment of anxiety disorders, including their advantages and disadvantages; provides guidance on minimizing the risk of addiction.