Alprazolam, sold under the brand name Xanax among others, is a fast-acting, potent tranquilizer of moderate duration within the triazolobenzodiazepine group of chemicals called benzodiazepines. [15] As a benzodiazepine, alprazolam comes with the risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction to the medication. Physical dependence to alprazolam can occur with prolonged use of the medication. A withdrawal reaction may occur when stopping alprazolam, but this risk can be reduced by slowly reducing the dose of alprazolam when stopping. 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 (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). Find patient medical information for Alprazolam (Xanax) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings XANAX (alprazolam) is indicated to treat anxiety disorders and for the short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety. XANAX is also indicated to treat panic disorder with or without a fear of places and situations that might cause panic, helplessness, or embarrassment (agoraphobia). Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine used as an anti-anxiety medication prescribed to treat panic attacks and anxiety disorders. Xanax is available in generic form. Xanax (alprazolam) will cause sedation, drowsiness and somnolence as a side effect but is not typically prescribed to help with insomnia (trouble sleeping) on a regular basis. Alprazolam, known by its brand name Xanax, is a prescription drug that belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is used in adults to treat severe anxiety disorders and panic disorders. Xanax (alprazolam) is a medication that treats anxiety. It calms down your nervous system.