Which medication is used primarily to alleviate anxiety symptoms?

Ativan, also known by its generic name lorazepam, is primarily used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. It belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This enhancement helps to produce a calming effect on both the mind and body, making it particularly effective for managing anxiety disorders and their associated symptoms.

Bumex, or bumetanide, is a diuretic primarily used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention due to heart failure, rather than for anxiety. Ambien, or zolpidem, is a medication prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia and is not indicated for anxiety. Lastly, Aricept, or donepezil, is primarily used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and is not associated with anxiety relief. This contextual understanding of each medication's primary use further clarifies why Ativan is the correct answer.