Alprazolam has a fairly short half life as I recall from when I used to take it. I won't now at all, just Diazepam (Valium) as required. Sometimes it doesn't work but it doesn't make me a danger on the roads either. I don't believe it should be prescribed for general anxiety as a result. It is great for panic attacks but is very addictive (beyond just plain habit forming). You should see your Doctor for something less extreme if you plan on taking it regularly for an extended period in my opinion. It might not seem a good idea now but should you want to stop, it is worth considering at the very least.   USES: Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming effect. It works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body (GABA).