I use Xanax as needed for disabling panic that I can't resolve in any other way. My physician prescribes 0.5mg for 3 times per day but I take it only when needed (the prescription gets me more for my money). He prescribed 1/day and monitored my usage when I began due to my history of drug use long ago. I have no desire to abuse the Xanax. One prescription lasts me for at least several months.

I take what I need of the 0.5mg tablet. Sometimes when sleep won't come in spite of autogenics/relaxation CD's and other attempts at falling asleep, I take a whole tablet. Other times when panic is rising rapidly, I begin with a quarter tablet and take more if needed. Taking a bit like that really helps keep the panic level down and doesn't make me drowsy at work. Often now only a quarter or a half is all I need.
Sometimes just knowing I have the Xanax available is relieving in itself and I don't even need to take any