10 Non-Addictive Anxiety Meds: Xanax Alternatives

These include chlordiazepoxide or Librium, clorazepate or Tranxene, diazepam or Valium, lorazepam or Ativan, and midazolam. It is important to know the Ativan vs. Xanax difference and natural Xanax alternatives to be aware of all the risks and benefits. Every year, doctors in the U.S. write millions of prescriptions for the powerful sedative Xanax or its generic equivalent, alprazolam. That’s true because this medication is quite beneficial for the relief of serious anxiety. However, Xanax use comes with some significant drawbacks, including risks for dependence and full-blow addiction. Are there safer alternatives that can help you avoid the need for Xanax addiction treatment?

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However, there are non-medication strategies for treating anxiety that actually have sufficient scientific research backing up their effectiveness. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine drug in the class of allergy medications but also has some sedating and anxiolytic effects. Like SSRIs, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have a lower risk of misuse, dependence, and addiction. SSRIs take around four to eight weeks to take effect and may produce side effects like headache, nausea, trouble sleeping, and dizziness. However, in the majority of people, side effects are mild and disappear after the first few days, and the treatment benefits outweigh the issues.

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• This article will delve into these natural Xanax alternatives, presenting a holistic approach to managing anxiety and stress.
• Preliminary findings suggest a mechanism mediated by the HPA axis — a key regulator of the stress hormone cortisol — and the GABAergic system 13.
• Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), work by blocking the absorption of released serotonin across neurons.
• If you’re looking for safe anxiety treatment, Brightside can match you with a licensed provider to prescribe you medication that’s delivered right to your door.
• Rooted in a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, it’s a condition that can drastically reduce one’s quality of life.

They can also promote overall well-being instead of just simply suppressing symptoms. It’s these potential pitfalls of Xanax that lead many to search for alternatives. Over time, the body can build a tolerance to Xanax, meaning that higher doses may be required to achieve the same therapeutic effects.

SSRIs

Throughout this process, closely monitor your symptoms and keep a detailed journal of any changes in your anxiety levels. Regularly review your progress with your healthcare provider, making adjustments to your plan as needed to ensure a smooth transition and sustained anxiety relief. If you require long-term anti-anxiety medication for an anxiety disorder, panic alternative to xanax disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, exploring alternatives to Xanax is a good idea.

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Additionally, because Xanax increases the activity of GABA, neurons adapt to the presence of the drug and become underactive when withdrawn. As a result, it is common for people to develop a physical dependence on Xanax and other similar medications over time. Xanax, or alprazolam, is a prescription medication that is part of a class of medications called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines all have a basic chemical structure that increases the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

• A systematic review of these studies indicated that Kava is a beneficial and effective treatment for anxiety.
• Research suggests that CBT can be effective for conditions like anxiety, depression, and many other mental health concerns 8.
• It works by stopping nerve cells from sending pain signals to the brain.
• It’s available in an immediate-release and extended-release (XR) form.
• It is a melatonin receptor agonist, which helps to balance chemicals in the brain.
• Engaging in light exercise is another effective natural remedy for reducing anxiety.

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The B vitamin complex comprises eight water-soluble vitamins, all of which are involved in the body’s stress response and neuronal health. The seeds, bark, and leaves of trees belonging to the Magnoliaceae family contain honokiol. This potent lignan has been found to enhance the neuro-suppressing effects of GABA by binding to the same receptor sites as benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants as they enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.

The primary active compounds in Kava are kavalactones, which are believed to affect neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly GABA and dopamine (19). It also has the potential for dependency, which prompts many to seek more natural solutions. However, while effective, Xanax comes with its own set of side effects. From sudden bouts of panic to prolonged periods of unease, anxiety affects millions worldwide.