Which type of drug might be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of anxiety through muscle relaxation?

Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, and they work primarily through their muscle relaxant properties. These drugs enhance the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABA-A receptors in the brain. This action leads to increased neuronal inhibition and results in a calming effect on the central nervous system, which can help to reduce anxiety and promote muscle relaxation.

Their ability to induce relaxation and reduce tension makes benzodiazepines particularly effective for individuals experiencing acute anxiety symptoms. This is in contrast to other drug classes, such as stimulants, which would typically increase alertness and energy levels, or antidepressants, which may take longer to have an effect on anxiety symptoms and are primarily designed to manage longer-term mood disorders rather than immediate muscle relaxation. Neuromuscular blockers are used primarily in surgical settings to induce paralysis and do not have anxiolytic properties, making them unsuitable for treating anxiety.