Is xanax the same as alprazolam?

Yes. Xanax is a brand name for the drug alprazolam. They’re the same medication; Xanax is just one marketed product, while alprazolam is the generic name. There are also other brand names (like Niravam for a sublingual form, Xanax XR for extended-release) and generic alprazolam tablets.

Key points:
- Both contain the same active ingredient (alprazolam) and work the same way.
- They can come in different forms and strengths (immediate-release, extended-release, sublingual), but the active ingredient is alprazolam.
- It’s a prescription benzodiazepine with risks like drowsiness, dependence, withdrawal, and interactions with other meds or alcohol.

If you’re comparing a prescription you’ve been given, or you’re curious about differences between XR vs immediate-release, I can help with specifics. Always use as prescribed and consult your clinician or pharmacist if you have safety questions.