Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Testing Animal Anxiety in Rats: Effects of Open Arm Ledges and Closed Arm Wall Transparency in Elevated Plus Maze Test
Published on: June 29, 2018
Comparison of long-term benzodiazepine users in three settings
C J Hawley1, M Tattersall, C Dellaportas
1Queen Elizabeth II Hospital, Welwyn Garden City, Herts.
Background:
Most studies of chronic benzodiazepine users consider selected populations which may be unrepresentative. This study was undertaken to examine possible differences between groups.
Method:
Subjects chosen were benzodiazepine users in general practice, a hospital clinic, and attending TRANX trials. Descriptive data were collected on characteristics and outcome.
Results:
TRANX trial patients had the best outcome (P = 0.027). Hospital cases used high doses of anxiolytic benzodiazepines; concomitant mental disorder, including schizophrenia, was common. General practice cases were older and mainly used hypnotics (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
Because groups of benzodiazepine users are different, there cannot be one single management approach. Cases require individual medical assessment.
Related Concept Videos
CNS Depressants: Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines
Anxiolytic Drugs: Overview
Primary Types of Anxiolytic Drugs
1. Benzodiazepines:
Benzodiazepines bind to the GABA-A receptor in the brain, enhancing GABA's interaction. This action reduces neurotransmission, effectively blocking anxiety-associated limbic circuitry.
Anxiolytic Drugs: Benzodiazepines and Buspirone
Sedatives and Hypnotics Drugs: Barbiturates
Sedatives and Hypnotics Drugs: Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. They bind to the GABAA receptor, increasing its affinity for GABA, which opens chloride...
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age

