Abstract
Triazolobenzodiazepines (TBDZs) are anxiolytics of the benzodiazepines (BDZs) group. The triazol ring presence results in some differences in their action as compared to that of traditional BDZs: its relatively short duration, antidepressive properties, and efficacy in panic disorder symptom s amelioration. Owing to TBDZs chemical structure specificity no active metabolites are freed on the drug decomposition. In consequence, the duration of these drugs action is shorter and they do not accumulate. The antidepressive effect is probably due to the fact that not only GABA system is affected by TBDZs. Their beneficial effects in depression include: amelioration of basic depressive symptoms (although their action is less powerful than that of antidepressants), an anxiolytic affect, as well as secondary symptoms relief. Among TBDZs, alprazolam is the only tranquilizer recommended in the treatment of panic disorder. Other drug of this group, i.e. estazolam and triazolam, are hypnotics mostly. Triazolam is seldom administered because of side effects including some mental symptoms and subsequent amnesia.