American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) Practice Exam 2026 - Free ABPN Practice Questions and Study Guide

Benzodiazepines specifically target the GABA-A receptor, which is a subtype of the GABA receptor family. GABA-A receptors are ionotropic receptors that, when activated by the neurotransmitter GABA, allow the influx of chloride ions into the neuron, leading to hyperpolarization and decreased neuronal excitability. Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of GABA at these receptors by increasing the frequency of the opening of the chloride channels in response to GABA binding. This action leads to increased inhibitory neurotransmission in the central nervous system, which is responsible for the anxiolytic, sedative, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects associated with benzodiazepine medications.

In contrast, GABA-B, GABA-C, and GABA-D receptors operate through different mechanisms or pathways. GABA-B receptors are metabotropic and primarily linked to G-proteins, which lead to slower, longer-lasting effects rather than the immediate, rapid action of GABA-A receptors. GABA-C receptors, while related, are less common than GABA-A receptors and have distinct pharmacological properties. GABA-D receptors also play less understood roles in the central nervous system compared to GABA-A receptors. Therefore, the specific targeting of