Alprazolam, commonly known by the brand name Xanax, is a medication prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. Belonging to the benzodiazepine class of drugs, it works by calming the brain and nerves through the enhancement of a natural chemical called GABA. While it can be very effective for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms, it must be used responsibly under a doctor’s supervision due to the risk of dependence, side effects, and interactions with other medications.