Antidepressants, herbs, supplements, vitamins, and minerals can also be used effectively to relieve anxiety. A 2020 study found that probiotics could be an effective additional treatment option, alongside traditional antianxiety medication. The study notes that, because anxiety is often linked with sleep disorders, alleviating anxiety symptoms may also improve sleep quality. The FDA have only approved Xanax for the treatment of panic disorders and anxiety. If a person is taking Xanax, they may be at a greater risk of an opioid overdose, as many people have a prescription for both drugs. It is important to note that the most effective treatment approach for anxiety disorders often involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication management.

• As GABA sends calming messages throughout the body, the overstimulation in the brain also calms.
• Fast-acting benzodiazepines exert their effect quickly, and a person will feel this effect less the next day.
• In comparative studies, it has shown a significantly lower risk of dependence and addiction.
• This non-sedative effect makes L-theanine a gentler alternative to medications like Xanax which may cause sleepiness and dependency.
• Oral Ativan takes a little longer than Xanax to kick in, up to 2 hours.
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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

However, recent research suggests it can also reduce general anxiety, making it a potential option for people interested in natural alternatives to Xanax. Gabapentin is an oral medication that treats seizures and shingles-related nerve pain. Like Xanax, sleepiness is a common side what is the best drug to replace xanax? effect of gabapentin for anxiety.

Important Information on CAPTA & Medication-Assisted Treatment

Spravato also carries warnings for sedation and suicidal thoughts and behavior. Propranolol is an oral medication for high blood pressure, angina, migraine, and more. It’s also prescribed off-label to treat generalized anxiety,  social phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), pre-operative or pre-dental treatment anxiety, stage fright, and agoraphobia. As a beta-blocker, propranolol isn’t addictive like some anxiety meds, including Xanax. But, it can cause various gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and nervous system-related side effects. People with breathing disorders, including asthma, shouldn’t take propranolol for anxiety.

Sleep hygiene

• But some states consider it a Schedule IV controlled substance and regulate its use at the state level.
• When it comes to managing anxiety, it’s important to note that benzodiazepines are not the only option.
• Trazodone, which might be sold under the brand name Desyrel, is an antidepressant classified as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI).
• CBT works by helping you identify, understand, and stop negative thought cycles.
• Xanax is an addictive medication, so if a person feels they are becoming dependent on it, they should reach out to an addiction center or talk to their doctor.
• The great thing about natural remedies is that they tend to be cheaper and safer.
• Treating anxiety by own can worsen the condition and lead to the appearance of unpredictable adverse effects.

This type of brain activity leads to symptoms like an increased heart rate and hypervigilance. Xanax is a popular FDA-approved drug prescribed to people with anxiety because of its effectiveness. Therapy helps with anxiety, and can be an effective alternative to Xanax or a complement to Xanax or another medication. Effexor isn’t a controlled substance like Xanax, so there’s no risk of dependence. Oral Ativan takes a little longer than Xanax to kick in, up to 2 hours.

Benzodiazepine Alternatives

Stopping Xanax abruptly can cause severe withdrawal symptoms — such as seizures, panic attacks, and psychosis — that may last weeks or even months. Xanax binds to GABA receptors to amplify the calming effects of the neurotransmitter. This slows neuron activity down, which creates a relaxing effect and eases anxiety symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered the first-line therapeutic treatment for anxiety. In CBT, your therapist works with you to identify the intrusive thoughts and behaviors contributing to your anxiety. Then, they give you tools to replace them with healthier coping strategies.

Birth Control Prescriptions

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. Nootropic supplements — commonly referred to as “smart drugs” — can improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety. Some studies say they work by enhancing brain health and neurotransmitter function.

Taking charge of your mental health is a step towards a happier and healthier life. Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health-wellness contributors; they are grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists of various specialties) to ensure content is accurate and on par with current industry standards.