Benzodiazepines (sometimes called “benzos”) are a class of depressant drugs used to treat conditions such as anxiety disorders, insomnia, relaxing muscles and preventing seizures. They are depressants that enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABAA receptor, resulting in sedative, hypnotic (sleep-inducing), anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties.