Which of the following is a CNS depressant?

Xanax is classified as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, primarily due to its active ingredient, alprazolam, which belongs to the benzodiazepine family. Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, leading to sedative, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), and muscle-relaxing effects. As a result, medications like Xanax are often prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks, and they work by slowing down brain activity, which contributes to their calming effect.

In contrast, nicotine is a stimulant that typically increases alertness and activates the CNS rather than depressing it. Adderall, containing amphetamine salts, is also a stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, enhancing focus and energy levels. Benzedrine, similarly, is an early form of amphetamine and acts as a stimulant as well. All of these substances have effects contrary to those of CNS depressants like Xanax, reinforcing why Xanax is the correct choice in identifying a CNS depressant.