What is a common purpose for prescribing benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are primarily prescribed for their anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative effects. They are effective in managing various anxiety disorders, providing relief from excessive worry, tension, and agitation. Additionally, their sedative properties make them a common choice for treating insomnia, as they can help patients fall asleep and reduce nighttime awakenings. This dual use for both anxiety management and sleep disturbances underscores their common purpose in clinical practice.

The other options do not align with the therapeutic uses of benzodiazepines. For instance, increasing heart rate or enhancing physical strength is not a therapeutic goal associated with this class of medications, and benzodiazepines do not improve memory; in fact, they can sometimes cause cognitive impairment or affect memory negatively, especially with long-term use. Understanding the specific applications of benzodiazepines helps clarify their role in pharmacotherapy for anxiety and sleep disorders.