Which drug is a common example of benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are a class of medications primarily used for their sedative, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant properties. Xanax, which is the correct answer, is well-known for its effectiveness in treating anxiety and panic disorders due to its ability to enhance the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This action leads to a calming effect on the nervous system, making Xanax a common and recognizable example of a benzodiazepine.

In contrast, the other choices represent different classes of drugs. Prozac is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Adderall is a stimulant medication commonly used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Buspirone is an anxiolytic that works differently from benzodiazepines, mainly used to manage anxiety, but it does not belong to the benzodiazepine class. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the specific therapeutic uses and mechanisms of different drug classes.