Alprazolam, commonly known by the brand name Xanax, is a prescription medication belonging to the benzodiazepine class. It is primarily used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and sometimes for the short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety. Alprazolam works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which results in a calming effect on the nervous system.