Prescription · benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines
Lorazepam · Alprazolam · Clonazepam · Diazepam
Mechanism
Enhance GABA-A receptor activity, producing anxiolytic, sedative, and muscle-relaxant effects.
Environmental footprint
Suppresses REM sleep. Slows gut motility. Tolerance develops. Withdrawal can be dangerous — requires medical supervision to discontinue.
What the evidence shows
Effective short-term for acute anxiety. Dependence and tolerance develop with regular use. Cognitive effects and fall risk in older adults well-documented.
Systems affected
Biome maps medication footprints; it does not recommend starting, stopping, or changing any prescription. Always consult your prescriber or pharmacist.