National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

Which neurotransmitter is primarily affected by benzodiazepines?

1. Dopamine

2. Norepinephrine

3. GABA

4. Serotonin

The correct answer is: GABA

Benzodiazepines primarily affect the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. When benzodiazepines bind to their specific sites on GABA receptors, they enhance the effects of GABA, leading to increased inhibitory neurotransmission. This results in sedative, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects. The action of benzodiazepines on GABA receptors facilitates the opening of chloride channels, leading to hyperpolarization of the neuronal membrane, which reduces neuronal excitability and helps alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for recognizing how benzodiazepines function within the context of addiction counseling, as they can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms if misused or used for extended periods. While dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin are important neurotransmitters involved in various physiological and psychological processes, they are not the primary targets of benzodiazepine action. Dopamine is involved in reward and pleasure mechanisms, norepinephrine in stress responses, and serotonin in mood regulation, but their primary function does not encompass the anxiolytic and sedative properties attributed to benzodiazepines.