Since GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, an increase in GABA receptor activity elicits anticonvulsant, hypnotic, muscle-relaxant, and ataxic effects. The effects of GABA are essentially the inverse of caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system (and may potentiate anxiety). Alprazolam is an allosteric modulator of the benzodiazepine-GABA-A-chloride ionophore receptor complex expressed in neurons of the limbic, thalamic, and hypothalamic regions of the brain. An “allosteric modulator” is a molecule that binds to a receptor at a locus distinct from the endogenous ligand and enhances or reduces the affinity of that ligand for the receptor. In the case of Xanax, binding to the GABA-A receptor complex increases the receptor’s affinity for GABA, the endogenous ligand.
The Importance of Consulting a Healthcare Professional
Clinical trials have shown that Silexan is effective at reducing anxiety. It even compares favorably to some conventional benzodiazepines and antidepressants, but without the potential for addiction or significant drowsiness (15). This, in turn, leads to physical dependence and addiction, where the body becomes reliant on the drug to function normally. Seek medical advice from your doctor or other healthcare provider before using any supplements. These over-the-counter treatments are commonly used for anxiety, depression, fatigue, or sleeplessness. The misconception that meditation is only for religious people is fading.
Medications such as lorazepam (Ativan) and clonazepam (Klonopin) offer anxiolytic effects with a more extended duration of action, potentially reducing the risk of dependence compared to Xanax. Alprazolam is a prescription medication that is prescribed for anxiety or depression. However, although this medication is commonly prescribed, it can have a lot of side effects. Taking this drug with alcohol, barbiturates, or opioids can result in respiratory depression, coma, or even death due to compounded central nervous system depression. There are many anti-anxiety medications that are alternatives to Xanax.
Non-Benzodiazepine Medications
However, there are non-medication strategies for treating anxiety that actually have sufficient scientific research backing up their effectiveness. Alcohol alters levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin and GABA. These imbalances can then result in increased anxiety levels later (75). While many people love that caffeine makes them more alert and energetic, caffeine also exacerbates symptoms of anxiety, such as feelings of nervousness, restlessness, and increased heart rate (72). Not surprisingly, exercise is recommended by many experts as their number one piece of advice for optimal brain function and mental health. As the popularity of yoga has spread globally, scientific studies have begun to validate its effectiveness as a tool for optimal mental health.
Engaging in light exercise is another effective natural remedy for reducing anxiety. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural mood elevators. Additionally, regular exercise can improve sleep, increase self-esteem, and reduce the symptoms of both anxiety and depression 28.
Natural Alternatives to Xanax for Relieving Anxiety
- Common side effects include nausea, trouble sleeping, and changes in libido.
- Drowsiness is a common side effect of products with a strong dose of diphenhydramine in them.
- Alternative treatments may include not only different medications but also therapy.
- Exercise is a highly effective non-medical solution to preventing and treating anxiety.
- Depending on your circumstances, the trade-off might be worth it to manage anxiety symptoms naturally.
- Deep breathing also lowers levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone in the body, which then leads to reduced anxiety (64).
Fortunately, there are a variety of other options if you don’t want to or can’t take Xanax. Read on to learn about other prescription medications, over-the-counter (OTC) options, or natural alternatives to Xanax that might be a better fit for treating your anxiety. Exercise is a highly effective non-medical solution to preventing and treating anxiety. This is especially true for cardiovascular exercise, but don’t worry if you’re not a runner.
Supplements and herbal remedies can be appealing to those seeking fast relief without the need for a prescription. OTCs are easily accessible and readily available in most areas or by ordering online. Chamomile, a commonly used natural remedy for anxiety, is known for its calming properties. It can be consumed as a tea or a supplement, and studies suggest it can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve overall psychological well-being.
Multiple studies have indicated that individuals with higher omega-3 intake or higher blood levels of omega-3s tend to have reduced symptoms of anxiety (42). One of the primary ways Ashwagandha combats stress and anxiety is by regulating cortisol levels. Elevated cortisol, especially chronically, can lead to a myriad of health issues, including increased anxiety. It was one of the first herbal remedies I took many years ago to manage my anxiety. The allure of natural Xanax alternatives lies in their potential to alleviate anxiety without the accompanying risks of traditional medications like Xanax. The addiction treatment experts at Spring Hill Recovery Center in Ashby, MA can help.
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. The primary active compounds in Kava are kavalactones, which are believed to affect neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly GABA and dopamine (19). But beyond its aromatic allure, lemon balm has a longstanding reputation in herbal medicine.
The dangerous side of popular sleep and anxiety drugs like Xanax and Lorazepam
Due to these risks, Xanax has a boxed warning from the FDA, its most serious warning for medications. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. While other benzodiazepines share similarities with Xanax, certain options have a less pronounced risk of addiction.
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We may be paid a fee for marketing or advertising by organizations that can assist with treating people with substance use disorders. Addiction Resource does not offer medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Only trained and licensed medical professionals can provide such services. If you or anyone you know is undergoing a severe health crisis, call a doctor or 911 immediately. Inositol is a substance that is found in high concentrations in the brain.
People should also speak with their doctor if they feel they are experiencing withdrawal symptoms after stopping Xanax or reducing the amount of Xanax they are taking. A person should talk to their doctor if they still cannot sleep after making changes to their sleep routine. A doctor may be able to suggest CBT or an alternative medication over Xanax. If medications or supplements are not working, a person could make some changes to their sleep routine. They also found that about 67% of the participants saw improvements in sleep, but the improvements did fluctuate over time. The researchers indicate that further research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on both anxiety and sleep.
Like other SSRIs, it can take alternative to xanax weeks for the drug to build up in your system and be fully effective. It’s considered a long-term treatment for anxiety, as opposed to Xanax. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and delayed ejaculation. It’s used to treat depression, OCD, panic disorder, and bulimia nervosa. But, it does have a boxed warning for suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
In a society increasingly leaning towards organic, chemical-free, and holistic approaches to well-being, interest in natural Xanax alternatives is both understandable and timely. To combat these feelings, many turn to medications like Xanax, a widely prescribed drug that offers temporary relief. Many people in recovery from substance abuse have found yoga to be a great method for building healthy habits and reducing drug or alcohol cravings. 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. Ativan is a benzodiazepine drug that is also an anti-anxiety medication.