Benzodiazepines represent a group of two-ring heterocyclic compounds consisting of a benzene ring fused to a diazepine ring. Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are one of the most widely prescribed pharmacologic agents in the United States (more than 112 million prescriptions in 2007). BZDs are used for numerous indications, including anxiety, insomnia, muscle relaxation, relief from spasticity caused by central nervous system pathology, and epilepsy. BZDs are also used intraoperatively because of their amnesic and anxiolytic properties. However, these properties become undesired side effects in nearly all other clinical instances. BZDs act as positive allosteric modulators on the gamma amino butyric acid (GABA)-A receptor. The GABA-A receptor is a ligand-gated chloride-selective ion channel. Benzodiazepines are a large drug class and have a long history of development, starting with the first FDA-approvals in the 1960s. All benzodiazepines are listed as DEA schedule IV controlled substances. As controlled substances, all benzodiazepines have the potential for abuse, addiction and diversion.