About Alprazolam
- It is a psychotropic substance under the Narcotics, Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act 1985.
- This drug falls under the benzodiazepines class of drugs, and is a tranquillizing agent used in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
- Benzodiazepines belong to the group of medicines called central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which are medicines that slow down the nervous system.
- Alprazolam enhances the activity of a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
- Used for: It is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression.
Key Facts about Directorate of Revenue Intelligence
- It was constituted in 1957 as the apex anti-smuggling intelligence and investigation agency.
- Functions: It is tasked with detecting and curbing smuggling of contraband, including drug trafficking and illicit international trade in wildlife and environmentally sensitive items, as well as combating commercial frauds related to international trade and evasion of customs duty.
- Nodal Ministry: It works under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
