Alprazolam (Xanax)

Here we look at the claims for Alprazolam (Xanax).

Version: 2.0 Last updated: April 2023 To be reviewed: November 2025

Treatment details

Type

Pharmaceutical

Safety

Evidence of harm

Efficacy

No or limited evidence that it is effective

Recommended?

Claims for treatment

That alprazolam reduces or eliminates the perception of tinnitus.

What is the treatment?

Alprazolam is given in pill form. It is a member of the benzodiazepine class of drugs.

What are the downsides of this treatment?

Drowsiness/sedation, fatigue and tiredness, impaired coordination, memory impairment, and irritability[1].

Alprazolam can be habit-forming – this can lead to addiction, overdose or death[1].

The sedative effects of alprazolam may last longer in older adults and accidental falls are common in older patients who take this drug[1].

Has there been research into this treatment?

Yes.

What does the research say?

The effectiveness of alprazolam was judged equivocal in one systematic review[2], and unknown in another[3].

Current guidelines say do not use benzodiazepines to treat tinnitus[4].

There are other evidence-based treatments for tinnitus, which should be offered where appropriate.

No medications have been shown to reliably eliminate or reduce the perception of tinnitus[4].

Comments

Anti-anxiety medication may be useful to reduce anxiety associated with tinnitus. There are, however, low evidence levels for the administration of such medication for reducing tinnitus distress.

We suggest talking to your doctor about the potential effects and side effects.