Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine drug that is marketed under the name Xanax. Xanax functions by amplifying the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that has inhibitory effects in the brain, just like other benzodiazepines. Xanax is frequently used for the short-term management of panic disorder, anxiety disorders, and occasionally, certain seizure types. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and other anxiety disorders are commonly treated with Xanax prescriptions.