Xanax: 12 Things You Should Know
Medically reviewed on Mar 16, 2017 by L. Anderson, PharmD
Xanax Has Been Around for Over 30 Years
Xanax, commonly referred to by its generic name alprazolam, was originally developed by Upjohn Labs in the late 1960's as a sleep aid with muscle relaxant properties, but researchers soon learned it had other properties, too. Xanax, in the class known as benzodiazepines, works to suppress the overreaction of the central nervous system. It was found to be effective for anxiety and panic disorder, and the FDA approved these uses in 1981. Xanax has been one of the most successful, but worrisome, blockbusters in years past due to a serious addiction potential. Patients also develop tolerance, requiring higher and higher doses.
https://www.drugs.com/slideshow/xanax-faqs-1148
