Xanax is a brand-name oral tablet that contains the active drug alprazolam and belongs to the benzodiazepine drug class. It is a prescription medicine that is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorder. Alprazolam acts on the brain and nerves to produce a calming effect by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body called GABA. Xanax is typically used to help ease the symptoms of anxiety while other treatments for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or panic disorder, such as antidepressants, are taking effect. It is also sometimes used “off-label” to treat other disorders, such as depression, fear of open spaces (agoraphobia), and premenstrual syndrome. Xanax is a federal controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. It is important to take Xanax exactly as directed by a healthcare provider and to avoid drinking alcohol or driving or operating heavy machinery until the effects of the medication have been determined.