XANAX Generic Name: alprazolam (al PRAH zoe lam) Brand Names: Xanax, Xanax XR. Alprazolam is an anti anxiety agent,benzodiazepine's.Used primarily for short-term relief of mild to moderate anxiety and nervous tension.Alprazolam is also effective in the treatment of activity depression or panic attacks. It can be useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome and anxiety due to a neurosis as well. Alprazolam may help the symptoms of PMS if extreme,some cancers pains if given with various narcotics, Alprazolam is used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders. agoraphobia,essential tremor,and ringing ears. * Alprazolam is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. * Alprazolam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety. * Alprazolam may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.