The Benzodiazepine Receptor

The 1,4-benzodiazepines have become the most frequently prescribed of all psychotropic drugs since the introduction of the first member of this series, chlordiazepoxide, into clinical practice in 1960. The compounds are used as anxiolytics, sedative/hypnotics, anticonvulsants, and muscle relaxants. This unique spectrum of activity, together with their large therapeutic index and essential lack of disturbing peripheral side effects, has assured their popularity and today over 25 analogs are available for prescription worldwide.