Which of the following is a common side effect of anxiolytics?

Drowsiness is a well-known side effect of anxiolytics, which are medications used primarily to relieve anxiety. These drugs function as central nervous system depressants, enhancing the effects of neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This increased activity generally leads to a calming effect, making patients feel relaxed and less anxious, but it often also results in sedation or excessive drowsiness.

Patients taking anxiolytics may find difficulty in performing tasks that require alertness and concentration due to this sedative effect. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals prescribed these medications to understand the potential impact on activities such as driving or operating heavy machinery.

While insomnia can occur, especially during the withdrawal phase, and hypertension is not typically associated with anxiolytics, it is clear that drowsiness is a significant and common side effect that arises from the mechanism by which these drugs operate. Additionally, increased alertness is not characteristic of anxiolytics; instead, they are intended to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, often leading to the opposite effect of increased alertness.