Name a common medication used in the management of anxiety disorders.

Benzodiazepines are commonly used in the management of anxiety disorders due to their ability to enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor. This leads to a calming effect on the central nervous system, thereby reducing symptoms of anxiety. They are often prescribed for short-term relief of severe anxiety symptoms because they act quickly, providing immediate calming effects.

While SSRIs are also used to treat anxiety disorders, they are typically a first-line treatment but may take several weeks to reach their full effectiveness. Narcoleptics are not used for anxiety and are primarily aimed at treating sleep disorders. Beta-blockers can help with the physical symptoms of anxiety, like rapid heartbeat, but are not a primary treatment for anxiety disorders as a whole. Benzodiazepines remain a favored choice for their rapid onset of action in managing acute anxiety episodes.