Alprazolam, sold under the brand name Xanax, among others, is a fast-acting, potent tranquilizer of medium duration in the triazolobenzodiazepine (TBZD) class, which are benzodiazepines (BZDs) fused with a triazole ring.[7] It is most commonly used in short-term management of anxiety disorders, specifically panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).[3] Other uses include the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea, together with other treatments.[6] GAD improvement occurs generally within a week.[8][9] Alprazolam is generally taken by mouth.[6]
Common side effects include sleepiness, depression, headaches, feeling tired, dry mouth, and memory problems.[6] Some of the sedation and tiredness may improve within a few days.[10] Due to concerns about misuse, some do not recommend alprazolam as an initial treatment for panic disorder.[11] Withdrawal or rebound symptoms may occur if use is suddenly decreased;[6] gradually decreasing the dose over weeks or months may be required.[8] Other rare risks include suicide[12][13] and a twofold increased risk of all-cause mortality.[14] Alprazolam, like other benzodiazepines, acts through the GABAA receptor.[6]
