Steve's physician has prescribed him valium for his anxiety attacks. This drug will __________.

A) stop the production of norepinephrine
B) stop the production of dopamine
C) increase sympathetic activity
D) depress the activity of the central nervous system

Valium is a sedative and tranquilizer that belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It works by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which reduces nervous system activity and causes a calming effect. This means that valium depresses the activity of the central nervous system, leading to relaxation, reduced anxiety, and sometimes drowsiness.