I don't take xr, just plain xanax. I have to say that it helps with my severe anxiety quickly. Like when I am in the middle of a total freak out anxiety attack; it usually cools it down to a somewhat non-hysterical level. I take xanax everyday and I honestly don't know what I would do if I didn't have it.

How long have to been taking it? I know it took me a while for it really to do anything.

Oh ya, and its really short acting, (at least the non-xr is), so after a few hours, my anxiety level is back shooting up...its a cycle. I end up taking more and more. But the alternative isn't worth it.

Is there a specific reason you are taking rx rather than just the regular "as needed" dosage? Maybe that would be better and make you not as sleepy.