Proven to be true by the fact that classical benzodiazepines increase the response of the central nervous system to emotionally charged events. Expressed by Aristotle over 2500 years ago. Not made until the acceptance of barbiturates as anxiolytic agents. Benzodiazepines increase the duration of channel openings while barbiturates increase channel frequency. Overdose from benzodiazepines can be effectively treated by administration of the benzodiazepine antagonist, flumazenil, while there is no antidote for barbiturate overdose.
Benzodiazepines have a low therapeutic index, low abuse liability, and few drug interactions.
Benzodiazepines and barbiturates have a high abuse liability. A major problem in the treatment of anxiety disorders is the development of tolerance to longterm treatment. Barbiturates and tranquilizers. Phenothiazines and benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines and serotonin reuptake inhibitors.