Xanax contains alprazolam, the primary active ingredient responsible for its therapeutic effects, which belongs to the benzodiazepines class. It is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and, in some cases, short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. It works by amplifying the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA helps by providing some calming effects such as: