Which substance has central nervous system (CNS) depressive effects and should be used with caution in clients taking alprazolam?

• A. Benzodiazepines
• B. Anxiolytics
• C. Alcohol
• D. Antipsychotics

Answer: (C)

The main concept is that combining CNS depressants with a benzodiazepine can dramatically increase sedative effects and risk serious breathing problems. Alcohol fits this scenario best because it is a common CNS depressant that markedly enhances the sedative action of alprazolam. Both substances boost inhibitory activity in the brain, particularly at GABA-A receptors, so their combined use can lead to excessive drowsiness, impaired coordination, confusion, and potentially life-threatening respiratory depression. While other options also involve depressant effects, alcohol is the classic interacting substance with benzodiazepines and is widely recognized as dangerous to use with alprazolam.