Xanax

Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, a synthetic psychoactive compound belonging to the benzodiazepine class.

• Chemical name (IUPAC):
  8-chloro-1-methyl-6-phenyl-4H-s-triazolo[4,3-a][1,4]benzodiazepine
• Molecular formula:
  C₁₇H₁₃ClN₄
• Molar mass:
  308.77 g/mol

Chemical class

• Triazolobenzodiazepine
• Benzodiazepine derivative
• Nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound

Key structural features

• A fused benzodiazepine ring system (benzene ring fused to a seven-membered diazepine ring)
• An additional triazole ring fused to the benzodiazepine core
• A chlorine substituent on the aromatic ring
• A phenyl ring attached to the central structure
• Multiple nitrogen atoms within the heterocyclic framework

Functional groups

• Triazole heterocycle
• Diazepine ring
• Aromatic benzene rings
• Aryl chloride (chlorinated aromatic ring)

Pharmacological chemical class

• Benzodiazepine
• Positive allosteric modulator of GABA_A receptors
• Enhances the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

Structural significance

Alprazolam differs from many classical benzodiazepines by the presence of a fused triazole ring, which influences its receptor-binding properties and pharmacological profile. The combination of the benzodiazepine scaffold and triazole moiety places it in the triazolobenzodiazepine subclass.

Physical characteristics

• Typically appears as a white crystalline powder in pure form
• Poorly soluble in water
• Stable under normal storage conditions when protected from excessive moisture and light