Top Alternatives to Xanax for Managing Anxiety

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• Some of the commonly cited herbal options are chamomile, valerian root, lavender, and kava.
• By modulating the activity of NMDA receptors in the brain, magnesium can help regulate neural excitability, preventing overstimulation and promoting calmness (32).
• For example, if you’re undergoing exposure therapy for social anxiety, your therapist might walk through an anxiety-inducing scenario with you, such as a birthday party.
• Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders, but it can be habit-forming and isn’t right for everyone.
• Make time to get a full 7 to 9 hours per night and follow the same sleep schedule every day.

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This prescription medication works by binding to the GABA-A receptor to raise neurotransmitter levels in the brain, creating a calm, relaxed state. Several alternative medications for Xanax work well to alleviate anxiety, both in the same and different classes of drugs. Alternatives to Xanax for the treatment of anxiety with a lower risk of addiction are available. While some benzodiazepine alternatives offer a reduced risk of dependence, non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics, SSRIs, SNRIs, beta-blockers and antihistamines present non-addictive options.

Talk with your doctor about natural alternatives

Xanax, also known as alprazolam, has undoubtedly provided relief to countless individuals who struggle with anxiety. In today’s fast-paced world, feelings of anxiety and overwhelming stress are common. Halcion is a benzodiazepine medication that is primarily prescribed to temporarily treat symptoms of insomnia. Anyone who takes Xanax will want to be aware of the drug’s side effects. Mild side effects tend to be more common, but one of the most serious side effects is the risk of addiction. While Xanax has many practical uses related to mental health, its use also comes with some concerning side effects and risks.

Gabapentin as a Xanax alternative

Studies have shown that Ashwagandha can significantly reduce cortisol levels (25). However, kava still has the potential for side effects, especially skin problems at higher doses. My recommendation is to follow the instructions on the product that you buy and cycle kava on and off. 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.

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Engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, or even just taking a walk in the park can have tremendous benefits for mental health. Physical activity helps release alternative to xanax endorphins which are our natural mood elevators, while being in nature can reduce feelings of isolation and put your troubles into perspective. To incorporate light exercise into your routine, consider walking (preferably outdoors in nature), gentle yoga, or tai chi. Even short bouts of physical activity can make a significant difference in your overall stress and reduce anxiety symptoms. Remember, consistency is more important than intensity when it comes to exercise for anxiety relief.

• L-theanine is a non-dietary amino acid found predominantly in green tea leaves.
• It takes longer to act, i.e., several weeks compared to Alprazolam (a benzodiazepine), but among Buspirone vs. Xanax, Buspirone is more effective for long-term treatment of anxiety.
• A dedicated doctor can provide tailored advice and recommend specialist addiction services or therapists.
• Wellbutrin carries a boxed warning for suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
• This article aims to shed light on some of these options, spanning from benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepines to the innovative approach of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
• While these drugs aren’t habit-forming, it usually isn’t recommended that a person take them on a long-term basis.
• Natural treatments can range from movement therapy to herbal supplements.

Valerian contains numerous phytochemicals, notably the eponymous sesquiterpenoid valerenic acid and its natural derivatives (e.g. acetoxy valerenic acid and hydroxy valerenic acid). Valerian root ostensibly mitigates anxiety and improves sleep by enhancing GABA interaction with GABA-A receptors. A more straightforward summary is that Xanax, along with other benzodiazepines like Valium, enhances the effects of the GABA your body naturally produces.

Drugs like buspirone (BuSpar) and hydroxyzine (Vistaril) are non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics. They work differently from Xanax while still providing relief from anxiety. These alternatives may be considered for individuals seeking options with a lower risk of addiction. Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) is an antihistamine that’s sometimes prescribed to treat anxiety or insomnia. It’s a short-term medication that can be used as an alternative to benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines, which became available in the 1960s, were some of the first medications prescribed specifically for anxiety.

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This means that it doesn’t have to be taken as many times during the day, which reduces the risk of misuse and addiction. Valium is used to treat anxiety as well as seizures and alcohol withdrawal. Like Xanax, Valium is fast-acting, which can lead to misuse and abuse.