What is the primary function of anti-anxiety drugs?

The primary function of anti-anxiety drugs is to block specific neurotransmitter receptor sites, particularly those associated with anxiety responses in the brain. Most commonly, these medications target the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, which play a crucial role in reducing neuronal excitability and facilitating a calming effect on the body. By enhancing GABAergic activity, anti-anxiety drugs effectively decrease anxiety and promote relaxation, helping to alleviate symptoms such as panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder, and excessive worry.

Blocking specific receptor sites helps in modulating the nervous system's response to stressors, thereby helping individuals manage anxiety more effectively. This method of action is fundamental for therapeutic efficacy in treating anxiety-related disorders.

The other options relate to mechanisms not primarily involved in the action of anti-anxiety medications. Enhancing neurotransmission or physical reactions to anxiety would likely worsen symptoms rather than alleviate them, and increasing body temperature is not a relevant function of anti-anxiety drugs.