Benzodiazepines modulate the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor to provide a variety of effects including sedation, anxiolysis, amnesia, and seizure control. They are commonly used to manage perioperative anxiety and sedation for surgical procedures. By binding to GABA receptors in the central nervous system, benzodiazepines enhance GABA’s inhibitory action, leading to decreased neural activity and central nervous system depression. Benzodiazepines show variability in clinical responses due to differences in receptor subtype interactions, with specific subtypes being more associated with sedative, anxiolytic, or amnestic effects. Adverse effects include drowsiness, respiratory depression, and paradoxical reactions. Long term risks include dependence and tolerance.