Is there anyone out there taking Alprazolam? (Xanax)?

Xanax works really well to take the edge off of anxiety, but it isn't a drug you stay on for long term use. A tolerance can be built up quickly, so you have to take more of it to get the same effect, and then you run the risk of addiction. Once you're addicted to a benzo getting off is hell. Not only do you have withdrawal, but all the anxiety will come flooding back and seem 100 times worse than it was to start. Xanax isn't a drug for people who have little self-control.

It depends on the person. Generally with this drug if there are issues with addiction (to other drugs) then it is best to use it sparingly and get off as soon as possible or use another drug in a different therapeutic class. That's for your doc to discuss with you. It can be a hard drug to get off of as the dependence builds quick and tolerance goes up. Think off it as a love it / hate it drug. Love it when it alleviates anxiety but hate it when you're trying to rid yourself of it.

I think it's a great medication if you're taking it for specific situations that you don't encounter daily (i.e., flying, public speaking, etc)