What is the most commonly prescribed class of anti-anxiety drugs?

Benzodiazepines are the most commonly prescribed class of anti-anxiety drugs due to their effectiveness and safety profile. They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor, which leads to increased inhibition in the central nervous system. This results in a calming effect, making benzodiazepines particularly useful for treating anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and for providing sedation before medical procedures.

In contrast, barbiturates, which are also central nervous system depressants, have largely fallen out of favor because of their potential for addiction, overdose, and dangerous interactions with other medications. Zolpidem, while effective as a sedative for short-term management of insomnia, is not primarily used as an anti-anxiety medication. Centrally-acting muscle relaxants are used primarily for muscle spasms and do not serve the specific purpose of treating anxiety. They thus do not have the same widespread application in anxiety management as benzodiazepines do.