This article will discuss how Xanax works, alternative options, and when to see a doctor. Calls to numbers on a specific treatment center listing will be routed to that treatment center. Any treatment center receiving calls from the site is a paid advertiser. For those seeking addiction treatment for themselves or a loved one, our calls are confidential and are available for 24/7 help. In some cases, alprazolam may be a better solution, and in others, a Xanax alternative may be better. It all depends on the individual situation and the different side effects of alprazolam and its substitutes.
Why Xanax alternatives?
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Xanax (alprazolam) is one of the most prescribed anti-anxiety medications available. There are other medications, therapies, and even natural Xanax alternatives. When considering the best choice of anxiety medication, any underlying conditions and/or coexisting mental health issues must be taken into account. A comprehensive assessment is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. While other benzodiazepines share similarities with Xanax, certain options have a less pronounced risk of addiction.
- Administration of Ativan with clozapine, valproate, probenecid, theophylline, and aminophylline can alter its effects.
- Cutting back or eliminating caffeine can serve as a natural approach to reducing anxiety, making it a lifestyle alternative to medications like Xanax.
- Over time, the body can build a tolerance to Xanax, meaning that higher doses may be required to achieve the same therapeutic effects.
- Since Xanax targets GABAergic transmission exclusively, natural ingredients with similar pharmacology can also induce relaxation, improve sleep, and foster feelings of well-being.
- Lastly, remember that every person is unique and may respond differently to alternative treatments.
What is the best benzodiazepine for anxiety?
Spravato works by targeting N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) replacement for xanax receptors in the brain. Side effects unique to Spravato include vertigo, feeling drunk, and changes in taste. Spravato and Xanax have similar boxed warnings for substance abuse and misuse.
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The Verified badge on our articles is a trusted sign of the most comprehensive scientifically-based medical content. 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. Root extracts from this herb contain kavalactones, which act within the limbic system to modulate GABA production. The resultant effect is some degree of central nervous depression that culminates in reduced anxiety.
How Do I Soothe Anxiety and Manage Medication Dependence?
- Studies have shown that Ashwagandha can significantly reduce cortisol levels (25).
- 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).
- But what amplifies its impact is its deceptive nature; it often remains cloaked, concealed behind daily stresses, making diagnosis and treatment a challenge.
- Rather compelling research has shown that treatment with magnesium supplements can rapidly relieve anxiety and panic attacks 11.
- Some antihistamines, like diphenhydramine, are occasionally used for their mild sedative effects to alleviate anxiety symptoms.
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Spravato also carries warnings for sedation and suicidal thoughts and behavior. 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.
Buspirone
If you are considering Xanax, looking to switch from Xanax, or are just curious about medication anxiety treatment, this comparison will help you understand your options. If there is a teenager in your life struggling with their emotional and mental health, consider psychotherapy methods developed specifically for teens. They will be able to help you find the best option based on your medical history, the severity of your anxiety symptoms, and discuss the pros and cons of each alternative with you. Eating well and exercising regularly can improve the body’s natural ability to manage stress, which may help with overall health. A balanced diet can support brain health, reduce inflammation, and regulate the activity of neurotransmitters. These coping mechanisms can teach people effective stress management techniques, potentially minimizing the need for prolonged medication use.
Buspirone instead of Xanax
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. Withdrawal symptoms are different for everyone, but Xanax withdrawal may include headaches, blurred vision, tremors, sweating, anxiety, panic, loss of appetite, and insomnia.