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 is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Learn how it works, common side effects, dosing, warnings, and safety tips. What is alprazolam, and what is it used for? Alprazolam (Xanax, Xanax XR, Niravam), is an anti- anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine drug family, the same family that includes diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), flurazepam (Dalmane), and others. 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 generic tablets are indicated for the management of anxiety disorder. Learn about side effects, drug interactions, dosages, warnings, and more. 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. Find patient medical information for Alprazolam (Xanax) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine. It is approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. However, benzodiazepines are also commonly used to treat difficulty sleeping and alcohol withdrawal. Xanax (alprazolam) is a medication that treats anxiety. It calms down your nervous system. Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine medication that can treat anxiety and panic disorder. But it’s a controlled substance and comes with many risks and side effects.