Xanax (alprazolam) and Prozac (fluoxetine) are prescription medications used for mental health but work very differently. Xanax is a fast-acting benzodiazepine used for short-term relief of anxiety and panic attacks, but it carries risks of dependence, sedation, and withdrawal. Prozac is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, anxiety, and OCD over the long term, with side effects like nausea, insomnia, or sexual dysfunction. Xanax provides quick symptom relief, while Prozac targets the underlying mood disorder gradually. Doctors weigh speed, duration, and risk of dependence when choosing between them.