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How to Get Prescribed Xanax

FDA approved
Discuss the pros and cons of using Xanax for anxiety in your particular situation and obtain an online prescription if a medical provider finds it necessary.
Wafaa Amjad Dar
Written by:
Wafaa Amjad Dar
Pharm-D
Dr. Linda May
Medical Reviewer:
Dr. Linda May
DO
The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only.
Their inclusion does not guarantee they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers.Healthcare providers may prescribe other medications, including non-stimulant options, or recommend non-pharmacological treatment based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs. Read more

Xanax has a boxed warning [1*] , the most serious type of warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Xanax’s active ingredient alprazolam can cause profound sedation and respiratory depression if used with opioids; it has a risk of abuse, misuse, addiction, physical dependence, and withdrawal reactions. Xanax is also a controlled substance, indicating its high potential for misuse or dependence. Specific federal and state laws limit the amount of this medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.

Highlights

  • Xanax belongs to Schedule IV of controlled substances necessitating a prescription from a licensed medical provider to obtain it. 
  • It is a benzodiazepine medication used in the management of various mental health conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. 
  • Xanax stimulates the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, bringing about feelings of relaxation and calmness.

Brand name: Xanax and Xanax XR

Generic name: Alprazolam

Drug class: Benzodiazepine, sedative-hypnotics

Dosage forms: Oral tablets; extended-release tablets are available

FDA-approved uses: Generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder

Xanax is one of the commonly prescribed medications for anxiety; it is shown to improve patients’ symptoms if taken according to instructions. To get Xanax prescribed online, it is necessary to first see a medical professional to have a mental health assessment. If, among all available treatment options, Xanax seems to be the most suitable choice in your case and your healthcare provider can prescribe controlled substances online, the prescription will be sent directly to the pharmacy. However, there are important things to know about this medication, so let’s break down everything you need to know below.

Your mental health is important
If you experience any symptoms disrupting your mental health, seek help from our experienced healthcare professionals.

What Conditions Qualify for Xanax?

Xanax can be prescribed for several mental health conditions, including: 

  • FDA-approved uses:
  • Off-label uses:
    • Social anxiety disorder (social phobia [3*] )
    • Insomnia (short-term use only)
    • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
    • Specific phobias

Off-label uses mean Xanax hasn’t been approved by the FDA to treat these exact conditions, however, healthcare professionals may prescribe it based on their clinical judgment.

In general, alprazolam is considered a “rescue medication,” and is ideal for short-term use only (2-4 weeks) for patients during their acute phase. Once the patient's condition becomes chronic, I transition them over to safer medication such as an SSRI, SNRI, or Buspirone.
Dr. Linda May, DO
Medical provider at MEDvidi

If you’re experiencing consistent symptoms and you think they may indicate any of the above conditions, it is important to consult with a licensed healthcare provider to determine the right treatment for you, which may or may not include Xanax.

Do You Need a Prescription for Xanax?

Xanax (alprazolam) is categorized as Schedule IV medication, which means it has the potential to be misused. Due to the risks of developing dependence, as well as its specific effects and a boxed warning, it is classified as a prescription-only medicine. You cannot buy it over the counter; you have to consult with a licensed healthcare professional who will assess your symptoms and provide you with a Xanax prescription if appropriate for you.

Who Can Prescribe Xanax?

The primary guidelines and regulations for prescribing controlled substances, including Xanax, may vary by state. A healthcare provider must be licensed in the state you’re residing in in order to prescribe Xanax. They must be authorized to prescribe controlled substances online if you are using telemedicine services. 

The following healthcare professionals are qualified to prescribe Xanax through in-person and online consultations if they meet the above-mentioned requirements: 

  • Psychiatrists
  • Primary Care Physicians (PCP)
  • General Practitioners
  • Neurologists
  • Nurse Practitioners (NP)
  • Physician Assistants (PA)

Can You Get a Prescription for Xanax Online?

Yes, courtesy of reliable telehealth services, it is possible to consult with a medical professional via a video call and get an online prescription for Xanax if it’s considered an appropriate treatment option. To decide on your treatment plan, a healthcare provider will assess your symptoms, health history, and other factors.

Remember, not all medical professionals may offer online prescription services, so it is better to confirm before the consultation if you think you might need it.

How to Get Prescribed Xanax Online?

In order to get a prescription for Xanax online, start with booking an online appointment with a licensed healthcare provider. Follow the below steps: 

  • Step 1: Find an experienced medical provider. Choose a healthcare professional who is licensed in your state and is experienced in mental health treatment.
  • Step 2: Have an initial appointment. During a video consultation, a healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and mental health history to make an accurate diagnosis.
  • Step 3: Get a treatment plan. Based on the results of the assessment, a healthcare professional will provide you with a treatment plan, which may include an online prescription for Xanax, if deemed medically appropriate. If prescribed, you will be able to pick up your medication from the pharmacy of your choice. 
  • Step 4: Follow-up appointments. Attend follow-up appointments to refill your prescription, monitor your response to treatment, and adjust it if needed.

Our healthcare providers are authorized to prescribe Xanax online if deemed appropriate. Get a personalized treatment plan for anxiety.

Note that booking an appointment doesn’t guarantee obtaining a prescription. The decision is at the discretion of your healthcare provider.

Xanax Cost

The cost of Xanax (as of May 2025) can vary widely based on your location, dosage, and insurance. The cost of a 30-day supply of Xanax from 0.25 mg to 2 mg tablets can approximately range from $192.10 to $598.07 without any coverage.

If cost considerations are a priority, you can ask your healthcare provider whether generic Xanax — alprazolam — may be suitable. In this case, a generic version of 30 tablets of 0.25 mg to 2 mg strengths varies from $13.48 to $28.39. You can also use available coupons provided by the manufacturer or other platforms, or check for a patient assistance program. It’s recommended to contact your pharmacy to get the most up-to-date information.

How Does Xanax Work?

Xanax [4*] belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by stimulating the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the nervous system, which results in reduced feelings of anxiety and panic. Its effects are typically seen within one to two hours (may vary depending on individual response), which makes it suitable for as-needed use. However, it also means it carries some risk of dependency if used too frequently or for extended periods.

Dosage of Xanax

The dosage of Xanax varies based on individual needs and the severity of the condition and should only be identified or adjusted by your physician. It is suggested to start with the lowest effective dose, which may be gradually increased later if your healthcare provider considers it necessary.

Xanax starts working within 1-2 hours after taking the dose in most individuals. However, it’s important to note that each individual responds to the medication differently, so for some, it may take longer to work. It is important to follow your medical professional’s instructions carefully and never take more than the prescribed dose. They can best determine the most appropriate dose for you depending on how your body responds to the medication.

What Are the Side Effects of Xanax?

Alprazolam [5*] can cause adverse effects in some individuals. In most cases, these side effects subside with time as the body gets used to the medication. Some common side effects of Xanax include: 

  • Drowsiness
  • Slowed breathing
  • Heart palpitations
  • Chest pain
  • Impaired coordination
  • Fatigue
  • Sweating
  • Appetite changes
  • Reduced alertness
  • Changes in mood
  • Dry mouth
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Blurred vision
  • Upset stomach 
  • Changes in libido


In addition to the physical effects of Xanax, it can lead to dependency and, if stopped abruptly, can potentially cause withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial to follow a careful and gradual tapering process under medical supervision when discontinuing Xanax to minimize withdrawal effects.

Patients can quickly develop a tolerance to their Xanax dose, due to the anxiolytic and sedative effects. For this reason, I always start patients on a low dose initially and closely follow their responses. If absolutely necessary, I will then increase the dosage very slowly.
Dr. Linda May, DO
Medical provider at MEDvidi

Warnings and Interactions

Like other medications, Xanax comes with warnings and interactions. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you’re taking, allergies, any past illnesses, and if you are currently diagnosed with any condition. This helps make sure that Xanax is a safe option for you. Some warnings for Xanax are the following:

  • Contraindicated if a patient is allergic to alprazolam or benzodiazepines.
  • There should be regular monitoring for respiratory disorders, including COPD, asthma, and sleep apnea.
  • Should be used with caution in patients with liver impairment; dose reductions may be required in renal insufficiency.
  • Should be avoided if there is a history of drug abuse.
  • Increased risk for sedation with falls and disorientation; lower doses are required.
  • Not recommended during pregnancy due to fetal risks and potential effects on a nursing baby.
  • Interacts with sedatives, anticonvulsants, antibiotics, antifungals, and antidepressants.
  • Dangerous when combined with opioids — the risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, coma, or death.

Alternatives for Xanax

Despite having proven efficacy, Xanax may not be the most appropriate treatment option for every individual. Some people may have to consider other options. This doesn’t undermine the efficacy of Xanax but means that each individual responds differently to a medication. In such situations, some alternatives to Xanax which a healthcare professional can prescribe depending on diagnosis include:

  • Psychotherapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can provide long-lasting relief without the associated risks.
  • Medications:
    • Other benzodiazepines like Ativan (lorazepam) or Valium (diazepam).
    • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs [6*] ), like Zoloft (sertraline) or Lexapro (escitalopram); mostly for long-term anxiety treatment.
    • Buspirone [7*] (comparatively lower risk of dependence).

It is important to closely work with your healthcare practitioner to find what works best for you.

Conclusion

Xanax can be a helpful treatment option for many individuals diagnosed with anxiety, allowing them to manage the symptoms and live fulfilling lives. If you experience any symptoms that disturb you, our medical team is here to help. Book an appointment with a healthcare professional who can conduct a detailed mental health assessment and determine the most suitable treatment plan for you, including an online Xanax prescription, if deemed appropriate.

FAQ

Can you get Xanax without a prescription?

No, Xanax is a prescription medication that you can obtain from a pharmacy only if you have a legitimate prescription from a licensed healthcare professional.

Can you buy Xanax online?

Yes, you can buy Xanax in legitimate online pharmacies if you have a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

What to ask the doctor about Xanax?

Talk to a medical professional if you are feeling anxious and think you may need professional help to cope with your symptoms. Discuss your health history and possible treatment options. If you receive a prescription for Xanax, remember to ask your physician about possible side effects, how to take your medication for higher effectiveness, what warnings you should be aware of, and what signs can indicate the risk of developing dependency. Also, note that Xanax is not the only treatment for anxiety, and your healthcare provider may recommend better-suited alternatives for you.

Why won't the doctor prescribe you Xanax?

A doctor may not prescribe Xanax if alternatives seem to be safer; for example, if there are contraindications to taking alprazolam, or an increased risk for dependence and addiction. A healthcare provider may also first recommend alternative treatment choices, such as counseling or lifestyle changes, depending on your symptoms and their impact on your daily life.

What to do if you miss a dose of Xanax?

If you miss a Xanax dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular medication schedule. Do not double the dose because you missed the previous one. If you miss more than one dose of your medication, consult your physician as soon as possible.

Can I receive a Xanax prescription while on Suboxone treatment?

It is not advised to take Xanax with Suboxone as it can result in highly unfavorable adverse effects. Because of safety concerns, patients must provide a letter from their Suboxone provider indicating that it is appropriate for them to receive a prescription for this medication. If you are currently taking or weaning off Suboxone, a healthcare provider may consider prescribing you Xanax only after obtaining the above-mentioned letter.

Sources

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7 sources
  1. DailyMed - ALPRAZOLAM tablet. Nih.gov. Published 2024.
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  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2869059/
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  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3335485/
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  4. George T, Tripp J. Alprazolam. Nih.gov. Published April 24, 2023.
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  5. Ait-Daoud N, Hamby AS, Sharma S, Blevins D. A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal. Journal of Addiction Medicine. 2020;12(1):4-10.
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  6. Chu A, Wadhwa R. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. PubMed. Published 2023.
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  7. Wilson TK, Tripp J. Buspirone. PubMed. Published 2021.
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