ABSTRACT
The development of ‘knock-in’ mice in which specific γ-aminobutyric acid receptor populations have been genetically engineered to lack benzodiazepine recognition has allowed the pharmacological spectrum of the classical benzodiazepines to be dissected. The 1990s marked a pause in the introduction of new psychotropic drugs acting at the benzodiazepine binding site. In fact, generalised anxiety disorder is the only major psychiatric condition whose pharmacological treatment has remained essentially unchanged for forty years, with the second benzodiazepine to be launched, diazepam, remaining the reference treatment. The 1990s were for the most part a quiet time for benzodiazepine research. However, a number of important findings at the end of the decade have given the field a new lease of life. The 1990s were for the most part a quiet time for benzodiazepine research. However, a number of important findings at the end of the decade have given the field a new lease of life.
