Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Includes side effects, interactions and safety information. Alprazolam (Xanax, Xanax XR, Niravam) is an anti-anxiety drug that belongs to the benzodiazepine class. Common side effects are fatigue, constipation, changes in weight, and addiction (dependency). Alprazolam is used in the treatment of Anxiety and Panic disorder. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine. It works by increasing the action of a chemical messenger (GABA) which suppresses the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines belong to the group of medicines called central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which are medicines that slow down the nervous system. Alprazolam generic tablets are indicated for the management of anxiety disorder. Learn about side effects, drug interactions, dosages, warnings, and more. Find patient medical information for Alprazolam (Xanax) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings What is this medication? ALPRAZOLAM (al PRAY zoe lam) treats anxiety. It works by helping your nervous system calm down. It belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines. Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Learn how it works, common side effects, dosing, warnings, and safety tips. Alprazolam is taken orally, and is absorbed well – 80% of alprazolam binds to proteins in the serum (the majority binding to albumin). The concentration of alprazolam peaks after one to two hours. Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorder (sudden, unexpected attacks of extreme fear and worry about these attacks). Alprazolam is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines.