​Xanax (also known as alprazolam) is one medication in a group of medications called benzodiazepines. It’s the most commonly prescribed medication in the U.S. that affects a person’s mental state. Benzodiazepines (sometimes called “Benzos”) are often prescribed for people with anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder. ​ ​They are also sometimes used for short-term treatment in people who have severe insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, and prolonged seizures. Xanax is considered a short-acting benzodiazepine, which means that it doesn’t last as long as other benzodiazepine medications. This can be helpful if you only need the effect for a short period of time.