Xanax is the brand name for the drug Alprazolam. This particular medicine is prescribed to deal with anxiety and panic disorders. Some are prescribed this to deal with sleep disorders. It’s in the drug class benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines, often called “benzos,” are prescription sedatives. Xanax works by interacting with the brain and central nervous system, making a person feel calm. Additionally, it works by enhancing GABA, a natural chemical in the body. xanax opioid is usually a tiny, white, oval shaped pill which is swallowed whole or broken up and dissolved in liquid or food.