Which of the following benzodiazepines is primarily associated with increasing the risk of drug abuse?

Prepare for the PNN Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with explanations. Get exam-ready!

The choice indicating that short-acting benzodiazepines are primarily associated with an increased risk of drug abuse is accurate due to their pharmacokinetic properties and how they affect the user experience. Short-acting benzodiazepines have a rapid onset of action and a shorter duration of effect, which can lead to more frequent dosing and a potential for a "high" feeling that some individuals may seek. This can create a cycle of misuse, as users might take them more often to maintain those effects, leading to dependence and addiction.

Moreover, because they act quickly and wear off rapidly, individuals may engage in taking higher doses or using them in combination with other substances, further increasing the risk of abuse. In contrast, longer-acting benzodiazepines generally provide a more stable level of medication in the bloodstream, which may reduce the onset of euphoric effects and the likelihood of misuse. Thus, short-acting benzodiazepines are notably linked with a higher potential for drug abuse compared to their longer-acting counterparts and other benzodiazepines mentioned in the choices.

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