Xanax is simply the brand name of the generic drug alprazolam. It is an anti-anxiety medication that is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. It is a part of the benzodiazepine family, a group of drugs known to calm people's nerves.Alprazolam pills are regularly prescribed, in both generic forms and Xanax, contributing to it being one of the most abused prescription drugs in the US. Although the drug is effective in reducing anxiety symptoms, it also has a high potential for recreational use and abuse due to its calming effects.