Certified Prevention Professional (CPP) Practice Exam

Alcohol and benzodiazepines are classified as what type of drugs?

1. Stimulants

2. Depressants

3. Hallucinogens

4. Narcotics

The correct answer is: Depressants

Alcohol and benzodiazepines are classified as depressants because they both work by inhibiting the central nervous system (CNS). This results in a calming effect on the body, leading to decreased heart rate, lowered blood pressure, and sedation. Depressants can also reduce anxiety and induce sleep, making them useful for treating conditions like anxiety disorders and insomnia. When considering the classifications of drugs, stimulants would typically increase alertness and energy, while hallucinogens alter perception and can cause hallucinations. Narcotics are primarily associated with pain relief and often produce a euphoric effect. In contrast, the sedative effects of alcohol and benzodiazepines contrast significantly with these other categories, underscoring their classification as depressants.