Benzodiazepine drugs include diazepam and alprazolam, are commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders because they work – as simple as that. Benzodiazepines relieves symptoms of anxiety, allowing the patient to rest or think more clearly. They are sometimes given before surgery so the patient will stay calm. Benzodiazepines exert effect in short period of time, and so works better than barbiturates. Such drugs should be used only for 1 to 2 weeks, or on as needed basis. Treating anxiety should be based on psychological approach rather than rely on drugs.
