Alprazolam is a medication commonly known by its brand name Xanax. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs, which are central nervous system depressants. Alprazolam is primarily prescribed to manage anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and occasionally insomnia. As a benzodiazepine, alprazolam works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA has inhibitory effects, meaning it reduces the activity of neurons, leading to a calming or sedative effect. By increasing GABA activity, alprazolam helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and panic by promoting relaxation and reducing excessive neuronal firing associated with these condition