National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

Benzodiazepines primarily work by activating GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors in the brain. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, meaning it plays a crucial role in reducing neuronal excitability. When benzodiazepines bind to specific sites on the GABA-A receptor, they enhance the effect of GABA. This results in increased chloride ion influx into neurons, leading to hyperpolarization and reduced neuronal activity. The overall effect is a calming or sedative action, which is why benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and several other conditions. The other options do not correctly describe the primary action of benzodiazepines. While dopamine receptors and opioid receptors are involved in different pathways related to mood and pain management, they are not the mechanisms through which benzodiazepines exert their therapeutic effects. Similarly, while serotonin regulation is important for mood, benzodiazepines do not primarily act by inhibiting serotonin levels. Understanding the GABAergic mechanism is essential for recognizing how benzodiazepines impact mental health and how they fit into treatment plans.