Xanax works on receptors in the brain, helping slow down excessive brain activity and reducing stress and panic feelings. Some people may experience the effects of Xanax within 5 to 10 minutes of taking it. Xanax can be useful for people but may harm them if used outside the prescribed dosage. Xanax is associated with a class of drugs known as Benzodiazepines. It also enhances the effects of natural chemicals known as Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) in the body. It is an anti-anxiety drug that does not affect everyone in the same way.