7 Xanax Alternatives: How Else You Can Help Treat Your Anxiety

Keep in mind that individuals metabolize caffeine at different rates and have varying thresholds for its effects. Some people might be particularly sensitive to caffeine and experience heightened anxiety even with small amounts. Despite all the great research behind yoga, I’m personally not a big fan of it. While yoga isn’t a direct pharmaceutical counterpart to Xanax, its consistent practice can substantially aid in managing anxiety and stress.

Sleep hygiene

The gut and the brain communicate through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, and the immune system (51-53). The nervous system relies heavily on B vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), and B12, for its proper function. As research progresses, there’s growing evidence linking adequate B vitamin intake with improved mood and reduced anxiety. Clinical trials have also shown promise in using omega-3 supplements to alleviate anxiety (43). If you’re interested in supplementing with theanine, this anti-anxiety supplement contains it. Research shows that combining magnesium with vitamin B6 can enhance the absorption and effectiveness of magnesium.

What are the best alternatives to benzodiazepines?

• Dr. Samuel Lee is a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in a spiritually-based mental health discipline and integrative approaches.
• Xanax is a commonly prescribed psychiatric medication that can be safe and effective when used as directed by a doctor.
• Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about how to store your medicine.
• There are various deep breathing techniques, such as the method (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8), box breathing, and paced respiration.
• If you take it as directed, the chance of becoming addicted is very low.
• This may not be a complete list of medicines that can interact with alprazolam.

Xanax has two properties that make it more prone to cause dependence and addiction. It burns off stress hormones and increases feel-good endorphins to help you handle daily stress. New theories are emerging to explain why GABA supplements may work despite this obstacle. Surprisingly, simply taking a multivitamin supplement can make you more resilient to stress.

Alternatives to Xanax: What are some safer options for anxiety?

Theanine has gained attention for its calming and cognitive-enhancing properties. As a result, it’s a compelling natural option for those seeking relief from stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that chamomile extract can help reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (28). Ashwagandha is one of the main herbs I took to reduce stress and anxiety as I came off my psychiatric medications.

Limit Alcohol

• Alternatives to Xanax include SSRIs, SNRIS, and propranolol, which don’t have the same potential for misuse.
• This is especially true for cardiovascular exercise, but don’t worry if you’re not a runner.
• Omega-3 fatty acids are considered “essential fatty acids”, meaning your body cannot create them.
• Many people find that cutting back on caffeine, or eliminating it completely, is one of the most effective anti-anxiety measures they can take.
• And some studies suggest this combination can be particularly effective in alleviating anxiety (36-37).
• As a result, it’s a compelling natural option for those seeking relief from stress and anxiety.
• As a result, it has been a staple in traditional medicine across various cultures, and it’s a potential alternative to pharmaceuticals like Xanax.

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. Kava is known to produce quick results, with many users reporting anxiety-reducing effects within an hour or even minutes of consumption. This rapid action can be especially helpful in acute anxiety situations.

There is some evidence to support kava kava for use in anxiety, but after the U.S. Food & Drug Administration issued a warning linking kava kava to liver damage, further NCCAM (National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine)-funded studies were put on hold 1. Do not take kava kava if you’re pregnant or nursing or have a liver disorder, cautions the UMMC. Kava kava can also interact with numerous drugs, including alcohol, anticonvulsants and antidepressants.

The primary active compounds in Kava are kavalactones, which are believed to affect neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly GABA and dopamine (19). Numerous studies have delved into Valerian’s effectiveness for anxiety. In the next sections, I’ll homeopathic xanax explore these natural Xanax alternatives in depth. Natural solutions can often be gentler on the body and mind, with fewer side effects. 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.