People's Pharmacy

Xanax

Generic Name:alprazolam

Revised:4/1/2000

Table of Contents

Overview

Xanax is the most frequently prescribed anti-anxiety agent in the country. It is similar in certain respects to Valium.

Once called minor tranquilizers or sedatives, such drugs are prescribed to calm jittery nerves and relieve excessive tension. Xanax is also prescribed for anxiety associated with depression and for panic attacks.

This drug belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. Xanax is a little more rapid in action than many other such compounds and its calming effect lasts for a relatively short period of time.