Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Alprazolam may cause some people, especially older persons, to become drowsy, dizzy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy, or are not alert or able to see well. It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure this medicine is working properly.
Since 5-HTP has an affect on serotonin levels, it may interact with other medications you’re taking, causing a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome in rare cases. Because of this, it’s best to talk to a healthcare professional before giving 5-HTP a try 10. ADHD is a mental health condition that often requires long-term care.
What Do People Use Xanax For?
Constituents of valerian root also appear to increase serotonin receptor activity, though the specific compounds responsible for this effect — aside from valerenic acid — remain unclear 19. The serotonergic and GABAergic properties of valerian are likely responsible for its sedative and calming effects. Rather compelling research has shown that treatment with magnesium supplements can rapidly relieve anxiety and panic attacks 11. Magnesium supplementation can also support immune function and reduce oxidative stress, imperative for overall health and longevity 12. The term “natural Xanax” is somewhat misleading since alprazolam is not a naturally occurring chemical, nor does it refer to any specific natural substances. Learn how genetic testing and pharmacogenomics are helping psychiatrists personalize care by identifying genetic syndromes and optimizing medication plans.
Disulfiram (Antabuse) & Alcoholism Treatment: Uses, Side Effects & Effectiveness
Mild side effects tend to be more common, but one of the most serious side effects is the risk of addiction. Even someone taking low doses may experience withdrawal after stopping the use of the drug. Several forms of therapy are used to successfully manage anxiety — often without the use of medication.
Learn more about how factors like your health insurance, where you live, and brands affect pricing. A balanced diet can support brain health, reduce inflammation, and regulate the activity of neurotransmitters. By boosting the production of endorphins and serotonin, exercise is known to improve mood, ease tension, and reduce irritability. The practices below may effectively provide lasting support for mental and physical well-being.
Over The Counter Xanax Alternatives For Anxiety Key Takeaways
Xanax does this by boosting the effects of a natural chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is made in the brain 4. A fast-acting drug, the effects of Xanax can be felt very soon after taking a dose, typically within two hours at most 3. Xanax acts on the brain and central nervous system by increasing the calming effect of the brain’s naturally-occurring chemical messengers. One of the simplest and most effective natural methods to alleviate anxiety is through deep breathing exercises. Deep breathing works by activating the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for promoting relaxation and reducing stress 26. When practiced consistently, it can help decrease heart rate, lower blood pressure, and provide a sense of calm.
Xanax alternatives for anxiety relief
- Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur.
- Always consult your doctor before using antihistamines for anxiety to ensure they’re safe for you.
- Therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is one of the most beneficial things anyone can do for their mental health.
- You can also use them to clear your mind and relax before falling asleep.
- There are several alternatives to consider for people with a history of substance abuse and those concerned about Xanax’s side effects.
Its sedative effects make it a popular choice for people looking for a natural way to manage both anxiety and insomnia. However, like prescription medications, valerian can have side effects and can negatively interfere with other natural supplements or prescription meds. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is another prudent Xanax alternative to consider for treating mental health conditions. Taking herbal supplements, nootropics, or prescription medications can help, but sometimes more is necessary. Clonazepam (brand name Klonopin) is another oral benzodiazepine used to treat panic disorder.
Buspirone — often referred to by its brand name, BuSpar — is another alternative to Xanax for managing anxiety long-term. This medication is commonly prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Several healthcare providers prefer to prescribe SSRIs to treat anxiety disorders because they’re less likely to be misused and cause dependency. In this article, we outline several safe and effective alternatives — from other medications to natural remedies and lifestyle changes — so you find the best choice for your mental health. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice.
The pulses are delivered via a magnetic coil placed over your scalp. Therapists may use TMS to treat generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder. Pristiq shares some side effects with Xanax, including dry mouth and sleepiness. Nausea, constipation, and decreased appetite are more common with Pristiq.
- To fall asleep, practice anxiety-relieving breathing and mindfulness techniques.
- Although used to treat anxiety, trazodone may not treat panic attacks as effectively as Xanax.
- Couple that with the fact that the only way (legally) to obtain it is if you’re prescribed it by a licensed physician, and that dwindles your possibilities of getting your hands on it in the first place.
- Well, the reason I’m writing this right now is there in fact ARE all natural pills and supplements out there that work very closely to Xanax.
- Learn how talk therapy and medication management work, when to see each professional, and how telehealth makes mental health care more accessible.
Unlike Xanax — which provides quick, short-term relief — SSRIs are meant for long-term anxiety management. Higher dosages can lead to withdrawal and dependency issues in the long run. Neurons in the brain fire rapidly when someone experiences anxiety. This type of brain activity leads to symptoms like an increased heart rate and hypervigilance. Their Kava extract is without a doubt the most effective all natural alternative to lorazepam you’ll find in the market. In addition, it also has the potential for abuse, addiction, and dependency, so you should limit use to just once or twice a week.
Other therapeutic protocols at Alternative to Meds can reduce anxiety significantly, such as yoga, meditation, and practicing mindfulness, massage therapy, and acupuncture. Please explore more about them on our services overview page, including IV + NAD, nebulized glutathione, art therapy, neurotransmitter rehabilitation, and many others. Your treatment team, professionals in their field, will customize your program uniquely for you.
Not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe all medications, particularly medications that are controlled substances. Cymbalta (duloxetine) is FDA-approved to treat depression, anxiety, and chronic pain conditions. It’s another SNRI, so it works by boosting your brain’s levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. It’s used to treat depression, OCD, panic disorder, and bulimia nervosa. But, it does have a boxed warning for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Typical side effects of Prozac for anxiety include sleepiness, nausea, diarrhea, and changes in libido or appetite.
Psychodynamic therapy aims to uncover the repressed thoughts and feelings behind your anxiety. Sessions focus on digging into your past experiences, so you can identify unresolved conflicts and work through them. Some people shouldn’t take Xanax too, including women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Meditation can be done by anyone and can provide many mental health benefits. Zoloft may be an alternative to Xanax for those who experience both anxiety and depression or who have a co-occurring substance use disorder. Serotonin-modulator antidepressants are considered some of the safest long-term alternatives to Xanax. Halcion is a benzodiazepine medication that is primarily prescribed to temporarily treat symptoms of insomnia. Many other well-known pharmaceuticals also fall within the class of benzodiazepines. They all have slightly different effects and are used to treat various mental and physical ailments.
Studies corroborate that Xanax tends to be as effective as Valium (diazepam) for treating clinical anxiety disorders, but it’s not without drawbacks. Due to a high potential for drug abuse and addiction, Xanax is a controlled substance in the United States. Purchasing Xanax online without a prescription is a) a federal crime, b) highly unsafe, and c) more likely to otc xanax cause problems than solve them. Alprazolam can cause physical dependence, which means your body relies on the medicine to function properly. If you stop alprazolam suddenly, it could lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may be life-threatening. Do not stop taking alprazolam without talking with your healthcare provider.
