Which medication is known to reverse the effects of benzodiazepines?

Flumazenil is recognized as a specific antagonist for benzodiazepines, which works by binding to the same receptors in the central nervous system that benzodiazepines target. By occupying these sites, flumazenil effectively reverses the sedative effects caused by benzodiazepines, making it a critical medication in cases of overdose or when it is necessary to restore consciousness after sedation.

In contrast, midazolam and diazepam are both benzodiazepines themselves, meaning they would not reverse the effects but rather contribute to them. Propofol is an intravenous anesthetic used to induce and maintain sedation or anesthesia, but it does not counteract the effects of benzodiazepines like flumazenil does. Therefore, flumazenil is the medication specifically designed for reversing benzodiazepine effects, establishing its role in emergency medicine and sedation management protocols.