National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What is a primary use of hypnotic benzodiazepines?

1. To treat depression

2. To promote sleep

3. To control seizures

4. To reduce anxiety

The correct answer is: To promote sleep

The primary use of hypnotic benzodiazepines is to promote sleep. These medications are specifically designed to help individuals who experience insomnia or other sleep disorders due to their sedative properties. By acting on the central nervous system, hypnotic benzodiazepines enhance the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has a calming effect. This action makes them effective for initiating and maintaining sleep, addressing issues related to both difficulty falling asleep and frequent awakenings during the night. While some benzodiazepines can also have effects on anxiety and can aid in controlling seizures, their categorization as "hypnotic" specifically highlights their primary role in inducing sleep rather than being used for treating other conditions like depression or anxiety disorders predominantly. This distinction is important in understanding the specific therapeutic applications of these medications.