I have panic disorder. but take clonazapam (only bite a piece off in the am and pm), therefore do not have to take much xanax. I anly take a "pinch" when I fell a panic attack comming on because it acts very quickly to stop the attack. Used correctly it is safe, I believe. All drugs can be abused. Even Asprin. Ask anyone with a stomach full of ulsers. I am prescribed 4 times as much as I actually take.