"i&#039;ve had severe anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and agoraphobia for 13 years. i was on valium, 10mg twice a day. i&#039;ve tried ativan and klonopin too. xanax is the only one that actually helps me feel normal. within 15 minutes of taking it, i can begin to feel it start calming me down. this is excellent when you&#039;re facing a panic attack. no side effects, other than sleepiness.  i can actually get out of the house when i take these. having agoraphobia is no fun at all. whenever i want to go somewhere, i will take my xanax around 30 minutes prior to leaving.  if you suffer from anxiety, or any of the things mentioned, this med will help you out tremendously!"