Which medication should NOT be mixed with sedative benzodiazepines due to the risk of excessive sedation?

Kava Kava is known for its sedating effects and is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety. When mixed with sedative benzodiazepines, there is a significant risk of excessive sedation and central nervous system depression. Both Kava Kava and benzodiazepines can enhance each other's depressant effects, potentially leading to profound drowsiness, respiratory depression, and increased risk of overdose.

In contrast, Buspirone is an anxiolytic medication that does not have sedative properties and is generally considered safe to use with benzodiazepines. SSRIs, while they can take time to exert their full effects on anxiety and depression, do not typically pose a risk for excessive sedation when combined with benzodiazepines. Beta-blockers are primarily used for cardiovascular issues and anxiety management but do not have sedative properties either. Therefore, Kava Kava stands out as the substance that poses the highest risk for additive sedative effects when mixed with benzodiazepines.