Xanax can help people with anxiety disorders and panic attacks, but it isn’t right for everyone. Due to Xanax’s addictive qualities, many people seek Xanax alternatives instead. While Klonopin does not avoid these problems, it does have an advantage over how Xanax works. It has a longer duration of action, having a half-life of 12 to 40 hours, compared to the short-acting benzo Xanax, which has a half-life of one to 12 hours.
- They can also promote overall well-being instead of just simply suppressing symptoms.
- Non-pharmacological interventions, including therapy and lifestyle changes, should be considered in conjunction with medication.
- Lastly, chronic inflammation is often linked to anxiety and mood disorders, and chamomile’s potent anti-inflammatory properties can help counteract this (31).
The researchers concluded it has positive effects similar to the effects of standard anti-anxiety medications (20-22). The allure of natural Xanax alternatives lies in their potential to alleviate anxiety without the accompanying risks of traditional medications like Xanax. Natural treatments can range from movement therapy to herbal supplements. Lifestyle changes can go a long way in managing short-term anxiety or stress. Strong arguments abound for avoiding benzodiazepines, and SSRIs have good reasons to be the go-to drug class for most cases of anxiety.
I’ve done a ton of research on the subject and tested dozens of anti-anxiety supplements, and the vast majority are garbage. It’s prescribed to literally millions of Americans, and is seen as being one of the most widely used (and abused) anti-anxiety medications in existence. 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.
The clinical services offered through this website are provided by Bicycle Health Medical Group, PA and Bicycle Health Provider Group Inc., that are independent, physician-owned medical groups. For more information about the relationship between Bicycle Health, Inc. and the Bicycle Health Medical Group, PA and/or Bicycle Health Inc. and the Bicycle Health Provider Group Inc., click here. Individuals who use SNRIs may also experience temporary, mild side effects like dry mouth, nausea, and constipation. To view a report comparing 3 (or more) medications, please sign in or what is a substitute for xanax create an account.
Lifestyle and Behavioral Adjustments for Managing Anxiety
Unlike Xanax — which provides quick, short-term relief — SSRIs are meant for long-term anxiety management. Xanax is an FDA-approved medication primarily used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. Abuse may lead to limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to those in schedule 3. At Talkiatry, we specialize in psychiatry, meaning the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. As the name implies, antidepressants are designed to treat depression, but they can be effective against anxiety as well.
Side Effects Of Xanax Use
This neurotransmitter is involved in learning and memory and increases levels of glutamate, which may help restore neural pathways disrupted in depression and anxiety. These drugs work by acting on two key messenger chemicals in the body, adrenaline and noradrenaline. When the body gets anxious, these chemical messengers cause certain unwanted side effects, such as sweating, shaking, and elevated heart rate. Beta-blockers block the effects of these chemical messengers, reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety and partially helping with psychological symptoms as well.
- While Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, and Valium are some examples benzodiazepines, your doctor may not prescribe any of them, preferring antidepressants medications instead.
- Cymbalta (duloxetine) is used to treat major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder and …
- If you experience insomnia and want an alternative treatment that may work as successfully as Xanax, CBT is often also used.
- Two commonly prescribed beta-blockers for this off-label use are atenolol and propranolol.
Other benzodiazepines that treat anxiety
Taking charge of your mental health is a step towards a happier and healthier life. Our science-backed approach boasts 95% of patients reporting no withdrawal symptoms at 7 days. The LifeMD Affiliated P.C.s are administratively led by LifeMD Southern Patient Medical Care, P.C., with registered office 1200 South Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL 33324.
Non-Addictive Anxiety Medications: Xanax Alternatives
It’s the highest quality and most effective Phenibut I’ve ever tested, and I’ve tested 10+ brands over the years. The reason behind this is, just like with drugs like Xanax and Lorazepam, it seems to build a tolerance quite rapidly. In fact, when combined with a stimulant like DMAA, Caffeine, or Ephedrine, the effects are very similar to that of Adderall, minus the anxiety producing effects that come with taking Adderall.
How Xanax helps people sleep
While they can be prescribed for anxiety, it’s crucial to consider their negative effects that can occur in the long term. While Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, and Valium are some examples benzodiazepines, your doctor may not prescribe any of them, preferring antidepressants medications instead. Antidepressants are effective, have lower risk of side effects, and the primary choice among psychiatrists to help treat anxiety.
Xanax’s Misuse Potential
CBT works by helping you identify, understand, and stop negative thought cycles. If you’re interested in CBT and medication management, you can take Talkiatry’s online assessment to get matched with one of our doctors. We’re a national psychiatry practice that provides virtual in-network are. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your anxiety management strategy, especially if you’re currently taking medication.
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. If Xanax is being used to treat anxiety-related disorders, a much safer and equally effective natural alternative is therapy. Over time, they build skills and develop better responses to stressful and anxiety-inducing stimuli. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), work by blocking the absorption of released serotonin across neurons. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate things like mood, sleep, and emotional response.
Generally, antidepressant medications are just as effective and can be more effective in the long term. These medications can treat depression and anxiety, which is helpful since symptoms of both commonly occur at the same time, making them a good substitute for Xanax. Taking the first step towards managing your anxiety can be daunting, but Neuro Wellness Spa’s team of professionals is dedicated to providing guidance and support throughout the process.