Xanax is a brand name for the medication alprazolam, which belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. Xanax is primarily prescribed for the management of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Xanax works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that has calming effects.