CBT targets negative thought patterns that impact behavior and emotions. Under stress, people might develop pessimistic thoughts and be unable to solve problems. CBT promotes balanced thinking, which improves coping abilities during stressful situations.
Alternatives To Xanax: Natural & Prescription
Many people today are turning to Ashwagandha as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals like Xanax. Often called the “Indian ginseng,” this adaptogenic herb has been used for over 3,000 years to relieve stress, increase energy levels, and improve concentration. Kava is known to produce quick results, with many users reporting anxiety-reducing effects within an hour or even minutes of consumption. This rapid action can be especially helpful in acute anxiety situations.
There are many different types of benzodiazepine and non-benzodiazepine medications used to treat anxiety. A 2020 study found that probiotics could be an effective additional treatment option, alongside traditional antianxiety medication. The study notes that, because anxiety is often linked with sleep disorders, alleviating anxiety symptoms may also improve sleep quality.
Due to Xanax’s addictive qualities, many people seek Xanax alternatives instead. All our psychiatrists (and all psychiatrists in general) are medical doctors with additional training in mental health. In order to find out which medications might be appropriate, they need to conduct a full evaluation. At Talkiatry, first visits are generally scheduled for 60 minutes or more to give your psychiatrist time to learn about you, work on alternative to xanax otc a treatment plan, and discuss any medications that might be included.
Risks and negative effects of Xanax
We investigate and correct the source of the problems that resulted in being prescribed Xanax. The best way to use Xanax alternatives is determined by the end goal you want to achieve. If one’s goal is to avoid beginning a prescription of benzodiazepines, alternatives (as will be discussed below) can support health before ever starting on neuroleptic drugs. It’s important to note that while these supplements may be natural, they can still interact with medications and have potential side effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Valerian
Deep breathing exercises, sometimes referred to as diaphragmatic or abdominal breathing, have been practiced across various cultures and traditions as a method to calm the mind. There are various forms of meditation, including mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), transcendental meditation, and loving-kindness meditation. Meditation can also stimulate the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, all of which play roles in the mitigation of anxiety (62). Neuroimaging studies have shown that consistent meditation can lead to changes in the structure and function of the brain.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have not approved Xanax as a treatment for insomnia. An alternative treatment for insomnia is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Learn how genetic testing and pharmacogenomics are helping psychiatrists personalize care by identifying genetic syndromes and optimizing medication plans.
Prescription alternatives to Xanax
- Our science-backed approach boasts 95% of patients reporting no withdrawal symptoms at 7 days.
- These medications work similarly to Xanax by enhancing GABA activity in the brain, which helps promote relaxation and reduce anxiety symptoms.
- We can connect you to a therapist, or to a medical provider that can help you reduce anxiety and get feeling better.
- Research shows that inhaling lavender for just 3 minutes can decrease anxiety and enhance mood.
- Numerous studies show that L-theanine can simultaneously enhance mental acuity and reduce stress 6.
A systematic review of these studies indicated that Kava is a beneficial and effective treatment for anxiety. The researchers concluded it has positive effects similar to the effects of standard anti-anxiety medications (20-22). These drugs are central-nervous-system depressants that can both have calming effects. Trazodone, which might be sold under the brand name Desyrel, is an antidepressant classified as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI).
This includes drowsiness and dizziness, and even more severe issues like respiratory depression and memory problems (1). In today’s fast-paced world, feelings of anxiety and overwhelming stress are common. The information in this article is for education and informational purposes only and should never be substituted for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away. Besides these side effects, one of the main downsides of Xanax is that it can be habit-forming. If you take it as directed, the chance of becoming addicted is very low.
Like any medication, beta-blockers may cause side effects like fatigue, dizziness, and low blood pressure. In individuals with anxiety disorders, GABA imbalance leads to heightened anxiety and excessive worry. Anxiolytic medications help restore this balance by enhancing GABA effects.
As modern medicine evolves, it has begun to embrace, study, and confirm the benefits of some of these age-old practices. Alcohol also disrupts the blood-brain barrier, and increases inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Exercise also increases nerve-growth factor, orexin, GABA, GDNF, and reduces inflammation in the brain.
As a result, individuals can experience decreased feelings of stress and anxiety (68). Deep breathing also lowers levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone in the body, which then leads to reduced anxiety (64). Multiple clinical trials have investigated the effects of specific probiotic strains on mood and anxiety.
A balanced autonomic nervous system means there’s a healthy balance between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) responses (71). Engaging in physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, which foster a sense of wellbeing (70). Exercise is a universal remedy with a myriad of benefits for both the body and the mind. While many find anxiety relief through yoga, it might not resonate with everyone. Many yoga practices activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation and recovery. This counteracts the “fight or flight” stress response driven by the sympathetic nervous system (66).
Antabuse (Disulfiram) Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and delayed ejaculation. If you find that you are unable to manage your anxiety with a combination of therapy and self-care practices, you may need medication to help reduce your symptoms and improve functioning. When you talk to your doctor, make sure to disclose any history of substance use disorder or drug misuse. These drugs work by acting on two key messenger chemicals in the body, adrenaline and noradrenaline.
- While medications and natural supplements can be effective, lifestyle and behavioral changes are essential for managing anxiety sustainably over the long term.
- OTCs are easily accessible and readily available in most areas or by ordering online.
- But, it is a controlled substance, so it has a potential for misuse and dependence if not used as directed.
- The researchers indicate that further research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on both anxiety and sleep.
Like physical exercise, the benefits of meditation are often most pronounced with regular and consistent practice. This bi-directional communication means that the state of your gut can influence your mental health. Certain B vitamins, notably vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), are involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA.
While meditation is not a direct pharmaceutical alternative like Xanax, consistent meditative practice offers meaningful benefits. The gut and the brain communicate through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, and the immune system (51-53). Omega-3s also play a protective role against the onset of anxiety and depression, particularly when consumed in adequate amounts from an early age (47). Clinical trials have also shown promise in using omega-3 supplements to alleviate anxiety (43). If you’re interested in supplementing with theanine, this anti-anxiety supplement contains it. Magnesium is also involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like GABA, which are crucial for the regulation of anxiety and mood (35).