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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. 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. Journavx, Vertex’s new non-opioid painkiller, is an alternative for managing moderate-to-severe acute pain without the risk of addiction.
Similar to Passion flower, Valerian root affects GABA levels in the brain. By inhibiting the breakdown of GABA, Valerian can help calm anxiety (5). For instance, combining it with lemon balm or valerian root can provide a more potent calming effect.
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As the name implies, antidepressants are designed to treat depression, but they can be effective against anxiety as well. If you’re looking for medical alternatives to Xanax, you might consider, beta blockers, antidepressants, or other anxiety medications like BusPar. In another Phase 3 trial using just Journavx alone in over 250 patients with either acute pain or post-surgical pain, participants rated how well they thought the drug worked. They received an initial dose of 100 mg, followed by 50 mg every 12 hours for up to 14 days.
Sleep hygiene
That’s why Anita is passionate about writing content that helps people learn about and overcome their anxieties & social fears so that they can perform at their best when it counts and live anxiety-free lives. Then all subjects had to cross a suspended bridge for a stimulus of stress. The GABA group was found to be considerably more relaxed as they performed a stressful task.
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If anxiety is stopping or getting in the way of your routine activities, you are not alone. As anxiety is such a common problem that affects many different people, anxiety disorders are often treated using prescription anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) medications such as Xanax (Alprazolam). While Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed psychotropic medications in the US (48 million prescriptions in one year alone – 2013) the drug can have serious risks and drawbacks. If you require long-term anti-anxiety medication for an anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, exploring alternatives to Xanax is a good idea. Xanax is a benzodiazepine medication that has the potential for misuse, dependence, and addiction.
While valerian has been used as popular herbal medicine for ages to reduce stress, treat insomnia, and alleviate anxiety, there is still a lack of clinical research supporting its anecdotal benefits. Hopefully, future human studies of valerian root will focus on treating mental health conditions. It takes longer to act, i.e., several weeks compared to Alprazolam (a benzodiazepine), but among Buspirone vs. Xanax, Buspirone is more effective for long-term treatment of anxiety. The half-life of Buspirone vs. Xanax is different; that of over the counter xanax alternative Buspirone is 2 to 3 hours. Xanax is available in its brand form, and its generic form, alprazolam, but buspirone is only available in its generic form. In comparative studies, it has shown a significantly lower risk of dependence and addiction.
therapy complements or alternatives to Xanax
Both have the potential for dependence and addiction with long-term higher doses. There are no over-the-counter (OTC) medications that are directly similar to Xanax (alprazolam), as Xanax is a prescription-only benzodiazepine with strong anti-anxiety effects. However, some people use OTC supplements like L-theanine, valerian root, or passionflower, which may have mild calming effects and help with anxiety. While these supplements are not as potent or fast-acting as Xanax, they can provide relief for some individuals with mild anxiety. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any OTC alternatives, especially if you are already taking medications for anxiety. Paxil (paroxetine) is an SSRI FDA-approved to treat social anxiety disorder, depression, OCD, panic disorder, and PTSD.
Other forms, such as running, can be a helpful addition as part of a holistic therapy for mental health. Improving your diet may also relieve anxiety, thanks to the gut-brain connection. Specifically, researchers recommend avoiding sugar, artificial sweeteners, and gluten. Instead, they recommend plenty of vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and turmeric. High-fat, low-carb diets, such as the ketogenic diet, may also be helpful. Studies show that acupuncture can help with situational anxiety, such as undergoing an operation.
What Are the Side Effects of Journavx?
If you have insomnia, you may want to talk to your provider about a Xanax substitute like trazodone to help aid in sleep. It is a melatonin receptor agonist, which helps to balance chemicals in the brain. It has recently been approved for long-term use, so it is safer and likely to come with fewer side effects when compared to Xanax. It’s worth noting that while antidepressants usually take a few weeks before noticeable results, they are much safer to take in the long term compared to benzodiazepines.
Like we said at the top of the page, anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric disorder in the world and in the US alone currently affect over 40 million adults per year 1. When speaking with your healthcare professional, be sure to provide them with a full list of other medications and supplements you’re taking as negative drug interactions with Xanax are possible 2. If a person has used Xanax regularly for a long time or in high dosages, withdrawal symptoms can/will occur if they suddenly stop taking it.
- If you’re looking for medical alternatives to Xanax, you might consider, beta blockers, antidepressants, or other anxiety medications like BusPar.
- GABA lowers the activity of some brain cells, promoting a sense of relaxation (2).
- It’s important to note that Xanax and other benzodiazepines have the potential to create dependence and should only be used under the guidance of a medical practitioner 4.
- As a result, nerve cell activity is more strongly suppressed, leading to feelings of sedation, relaxation, and a reduction in anxiety.
- Additional factors such as an overly demanding workplace, a foundering marriage, or other stressors can overwhelm a person.
Beta-blockers prevent the stress hormone adrenaline (epinephrine) from contacting the beta receptors in the heart, which prevent the heart from pumping harder or faster. This helps to decrease the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a fast heart rate, a shaky voice, or hands, sweating, and dizziness. Like any medication, beta-blockers may cause side effects like fatigue, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Diane is an avid supporter and researcher of natural mental health strategies.
- If a person feels they are becoming dependent on Xanax, they should reach out to an addiction center or their doctor, who can help them make the withdrawal process safe.
- Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine drug in the class of allergy medications but also has some sedating and anxiolytic effects.
- Suzetrigine is the first non-opioid analgesic – or medication to control pain – of its class to receive federal approval in more than 20 years.
- But the Boston drugmaker’s share price plummeted in December when Vertex reported disappointing mid-stage results in a study of patients with chronic nerve pain affecting the lower back and legs.
- Journavx is approved to treat moderate-to-severe acute pain in adults, such as pain following surgery or injury.
- The study notes that, because anxiety is often linked with sleep disorders, alleviating anxiety symptoms may also improve sleep quality.
Using therapy in addition to medication for anxiety disorders is proven to give you up to a 60% better chance of recovery as opposed to just one treatment alone. 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.