Note:It’s essential to talk to your doctor before stopping Xanax or starting any over-the-counter or natural supplements. They will review your symptoms, comorbid conditions, and any other medication or supplements you’re taking to ensure there are no negative drug interactions.Xanax (alprazolam) is a popular prescription drug used to treat symptoms of anxiety disorders and panic disorders. While it’s generally effective and safe, Xanax use is not suitable for everyone. Some people seek Xanax alternatives because they don’t like the common side effects they experience, or they’re concerned about Xanax dependence and substance abuse.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.Psychiatry and prescriptions onlineGet an evaluation and prescription online from a licensed psychiatric provider to improve your well-being.Get started
Note:It’s essential to talk to your doctor before stopping Xanax or starting any over-the-counter or natural supplements. They will review your symptoms, comorbid conditions, and any other medication or supplements you’re taking to ensure there are no negative drug interactions.
Xanax (alprazolam) is a popular prescription drug used to treat symptoms of anxiety disorders and panic disorders. While it’s generally effective and safe, Xanax use is not suitable for everyone. Some people seek Xanax alternatives because they don’t like the common side effects they experience, or they’re concerned about Xanax dependence and substance abuse.
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.
Psychiatry and prescriptions onlineGet an evaluation and prescription online from a licensed psychiatric provider to improve your well-being.Get started
Psychiatry and prescriptions onlineGet an evaluation and prescription online from a licensed psychiatric provider to improve your well-being.
Psychiatry and prescriptions online
Get an evaluation and prescription online from a licensed psychiatric provider to improve your well-being.
Prescription Medication Alternatives to Xanax
Other benzodiazepines that treat anxiety
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (antidepressants) that treat anxiety
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (antidepressants) that treat anxiety
Beta-blockers that treat anxiety:
Natural Alternatives to XanaxPeople with generalized anxiety disorder seeking natural alternatives to Xanax have multiple options. Relief can come from natural alternative medication, herbal remedies, or therapeutic practices without needing a prescription anti-anxiety medication or having to worry about the risk of dependency or drug abuse. Many of the following remedies and holistic coping techniques may help with anxiety.“Taking care of anxiety with natural remedies is the best option as it reduces the chances of addiction, as is the case with benzodiazepines. The regular long-term use of Xanax can also cause depression further complicating the treatment.”–Talkspace psychiatrist, Dr. Muhammad MunirChamomileChamomile, a commonly usednatural remedy for anxiety, is known for its calming properties. It can be consumed as a tea or a supplement, andstudiessuggest it can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve overall psychological well-being.LavenderLoved for its soothing, pleasant scent, lavender is commonly used inessential oils for anxiety, sachets, diffusers, and candles.Research showsthat inhaling lavender for just 3 minutes can decrease anxiety and enhance mood.Valerian rootSome people usevalerian root for anxietybecause it may promote sleep and relaxation and cansignificantly reduceanxiety in some people. 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. Make sure to talk to your doctor before trying it.PassionflowerPassionflower can have positive effects on symptoms of anxiety, and several studies suggest it may be a promising alternative to prescription drugs.One studyfound that people who took an herbal extract containing passionflower saw significantly reducedsymptoms of generalized anxiety disorder(GAD).TherapySeveral forms of therapy are used tosuccessfully manageanxiety — often without the use of medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapy are 2 types oftherapy for anxietyknown for their efficacy in reducing symptoms.Self-help techniquesThere are several self-help techniques that can be incorporated into daily routines to drastically reduce symptoms and help manage anxiety over time. Many work as an effective stand-alone treatment, and others have enhanced effectiveness when combined with additional forms of treatment like medication or natural alternatives.Some helpfulcoping skills for anxietyinclude:Mindful meditationteaches you to focus on the present so you can gain a calm, clear perspective on your thoughts instead of worrying about the past or future.Exercise: Regular activity improves physical health and releases endorphins to naturally boost mood.Get enough sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for managing anxiety. Develop a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation and consistent sleep and wake times—even on the weekend. Limiting screen time before bed is also a good way to improve sleep health.Journal:Journaling for anxietycan help you find patterns or triggers that are contributing to your anxiety. Then you can either avoid them or find coping skills to manage them.Eat healthy: Minor dietary adjustments—for example, limiting anxiety-inducing foods like caffeine and sugar—can have a positive effect on symptoms. Eating more brain-boosting foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids can also reduce stress.Find social support: Build and maintain a strong network of friends and family who can offer emotional support when you need it. Support systems also help reduce feelings of isolation that are common with anxiety.Relaxation techniques: Yoga, Tai Chi, and guided imagery are all positive ways to reduce anxiety.“Research has proven medications and therapy are the best way to treat anxiety. Therapy builds skills and strategies to address anxiety long-term. Meds are the bridge to get through the situations and learning cognitive ways to handle the daily challenges is the goal.”–Talkspace psychiatrist, Dr. Muhammad Munir
Natural Alternatives to Xanax
People with generalized anxiety disorder seeking natural alternatives to Xanax have multiple options. Relief can come from natural alternative medication, herbal remedies, or therapeutic practices without needing a prescription anti-anxiety medication or having to worry about the risk of dependency or drug abuse. Many of the following remedies and holistic coping techniques may help with anxiety.
“Taking care of anxiety with natural remedies is the best option as it reduces the chances of addiction, as is the case with benzodiazepines. The regular long-term use of Xanax can also cause depression further complicating the treatment.”
Chamomile
Chamomile, a commonly usednatural remedy for anxiety, is known for its calming properties. It can be consumed as a tea or a supplement, andstudiessuggest it can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve overall psychological well-being.
Lavender
Loved for its soothing, pleasant scent, lavender is commonly used inessential oils for anxiety, sachets, diffusers, and candles.Research showsthat inhaling lavender for just 3 minutes can decrease anxiety and enhance mood.
Valerian root
Some people usevalerian root for anxietybecause it may promote sleep and relaxation and cansignificantly reduceanxiety in some people. 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. Make sure to talk to your doctor before trying it.
Passionflower
Passionflower can have positive effects on symptoms of anxiety, and several studies suggest it may be a promising alternative to prescription drugs.One studyfound that people who took an herbal extract containing passionflower saw significantly reducedsymptoms of generalized anxiety disorder(GAD).
Therapy
Several forms of therapy are used tosuccessfully manageanxiety — often without the use of medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapy are 2 types oftherapy for anxietyknown for their efficacy in reducing symptoms.
Self-help techniques
There are several self-help techniques that can be incorporated into daily routines to drastically reduce symptoms and help manage anxiety over time. Many work as an effective stand-alone treatment, and others have enhanced effectiveness when combined with additional forms of treatment like medication or natural alternatives.
Some helpfulcoping skills for anxietyinclude:
“Research has proven medications and therapy are the best way to treat anxiety. Therapy builds skills and strategies to address anxiety long-term. Meds are the bridge to get through the situations and learning cognitive ways to handle the daily challenges is the goal.”
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Alternatives to Xanax
Nootropic supplements
Magnesium supplements
For those looking for nonprescription alternatives, you can look into usingmagnesium for anxiety. It’s crucial for neurotransmitter regulation and it impacts the nervous system for improved mental health. Studies suggest that magnesium supplements can be beneficial inmanaging mild anxiety.
Herbal supplements
Vitamin B complex
B vitamins are essential for maintaining good mental health.Research has shownthat high doses of vitamin B can reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.
Find Effective Treatments with Talkspace
If you’re seeking Xanax alternatives to help manage your symptoms of anxiety, Talkspace can help.
Get comprehensive, convenient guidance and solutions through an online platform that connects you with qualified, licensed therapists and psychiatrists who can introduce you to a variety of effective options. From otheranxiety medicationsand holistic treatments to therapeutic approaches, Talkspace makes accessing complete mental health support easy.
Getting therapy and a practical, personalized treatment plan that fits your needs from the comfort of your homeispossible. Talkspace offers an accessible, affordable way to enhance your mental well-being and take control of your anxiety.
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