A 45-year-old woman with generalized anxiety disorder presents for medication management. She has been taking alprazolam 0.5 mg TID prescribed by her previous provider for 8 months. She reports good symptom control but is concerned about long-term use. The PMHNP discusses the mechanism of action and plans a cross-taper to a non-benzodiazepine agent. Understanding GABAergic neurotransmission is essential for safe management.