"i was prescribed regular xanax in the early 90&#039;s for anxiety and it changed my life - for the better.  i was more productive than ever, my relationships got back to where they should be, and i was finally sleeping well.   as time went on, my tolerance increased and i suffered significant peaks and valleys between doses throughout the day.  xanax xr was complete game changer for me - a completely different medication.  i take it in the morning and feel great all day long and i sleep well.  i still take the regular xanax on occasion if my anxiety flares.  the xr version is far better but much more expensive.  the $120/mo is nothing when it comes to quality of life.  ."