Xanax and alcohol both have a relaxing effect on users, but when taken together, they become a dangerous combination with a potential for addiction. The following provides more information about Xanax and Ambien separately from one another, as well as what you should know about combining them. Alprazolam (Xanax, Xanax XR, Niravam) is an anti-anxiety drug that belongs to the benzodiazepine class. Common side effects are fatigue, constipation, changes in weight, and addiction (dependency). Withdrawal symptoms are headaches, anxiety, and nausea and vomiting. Alprazolam, sold under the trade name Xanax among others, is a short-acting benzodiazepine. It is most commonly used in short term management of anxiety disorders, specifically panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Other uses include chemotherapy-induced nausea, together with other treatments. GAD improvement occurs generally. Both Xanax and alcohol depress the central nervous system, which is responsible for your breathing. Taking both of these drugs can result in breathing becoming so slow and shallow that death ultimately results. Xanax XR Tablets contain alprazolam which is a triazolo analog of the 1,4 benzodiazepine class of central nervous system-active compounds. The chemical name of alprazolam is 8-chloro-1-methyl-6-phenyl-4 H-s-triazolo [4,3-α] [1,4] benzodiazepine. BuSpar (buspirone) and Xanax (alprazolam) are antianxiety drugs prescribed for the treatment of anxiety disorders. BuSpar is a discontinued brand in the U.S. Generic buspirone is available. Xanax is a drug that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It promotes a feeling of calm and relaxation, and when taken correctly, is a safe and effective drug. However, Xanax comes with. The Potency of Xanax. Xanax is arguably one of the most addictive legal drugs that is widely available today, even if there are prescription controls on it. Easy-to-read patient leaflet for Xanax. Includes indications, proper use, special instructions, precautions, and possible side effects.