It can be consumed as a tea or a supplement, and studies suggest it can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve overall psychological well-being. People with generalized anxiety disorder seeking natural alternatives to Xanax have multiple options. Many of the following remedies and holistic coping techniques may help with anxiety. That means that other types of medication are better choices when it comes to treating anxiety. Clinical trials of lemon balm extract have shown this herb can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by as much as 30% 22.

Alternatives to Xanax for insomnia

Besides Alprazolam, other benzodiazepines can be prescribed for the treatment of anxiety. These include chlordiazepoxide or Librium, clorazepate or Tranxene, diazepam or Valium, lorazepam or Ativan, and midazolam. It is important to know the Ativan vs. Xanax difference and natural Xanax alternatives to be aware of all the risks and benefits. There are many anti-anxiety medications that are alternatives to Xanax. These can take the form of other longer or intermediate-acting benzodiazepines. Antidepressants, herbs, supplements, vitamins, and minerals can also be used effectively to relieve anxiety.

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• They bind to the GABA-A ligand-gated chloride channel neuron at its benzodiazepine receptor.
• Meditation can also stimulate the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, all of which play roles in the mitigation of anxiety (62).
• Studies corroborate that Xanax tends to be as effective as Valium (diazepam) for treating clinical anxiety disorders, but it’s not without drawbacks.
• If you take it as directed, the chance of becoming addicted is very low.
• 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.
• In your brain, there are communication centers called neurons that send messages to each other using chemicals called neurotransmitters.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have not approved Xanax as a treatment for insomnia. An alternative treatment for insomnia is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. Abuse may lead to limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to those in schedule 3.

Research has shown that high doses of vitamin B can reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. Xanax is in the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, a type of anti-anxiety medication. This prescription medication works by binding to the GABA-A receptor to raise neurotransmitter levels in the brain, creating a calm, relaxed state. Several alternative medications for Xanax work well to alleviate anxiety, both in the same and different classes of drugs. If you find that you are unable to manage your anxiety with a combination of therapy and self-care practices, you may need medication to help reduce your symptoms and improve functioning.

Other tips to help get to sleep

In the next sections, I’ll 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.

Here is a rundown of some of the top natural treatments that are frequently used for fear. Ativan and Alprazolam both belong to the class benzodiazepine, and they are prescribed for the treatment of sleep disorders, anxiety, and various psychiatric conditions. They are also prescribed for insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, and other conditions as an off-label drug.

The Benefits of Natural Alternatives to Xanax

Comparing Xanax to natural GABA agonists is like comparing apples to oranges. Throughout this article, we’ll detail how prescription drugs like Xanax work and further detail these five Xanax alternatives. With the right therapies, lifestyle changes, and medication, you can control your anxiety and you’ll be able to function well, be productive and live your life. Our blog is a space dedicated to sharing information and expert advice to help you improve your overall mental health. Kyle struggled with depression for most of his life, but when his girlfriend encouraged him to seek treatment, he knew it was time to get the help he needed…

• Drowsiness is a common side effect of products with a strong dose of diphenhydramine in them.
• Research has shown that high doses of vitamin B can reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.
• Since GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, an increase in GABA receptor activity elicits anticonvulsant, hypnotic, muscle-relaxant, and ataxic effects.
• Many individuals, especially in the Western world, are magnesium-deficient and would benefit from supplementation.
• Natural solutions can often be gentler on the body and mind, with fewer side effects.
• Elevated cortisol, especially chronically, can lead to a myriad of health issues, including increased anxiety.

Because of this, it’s important for people with anxiety to have alternatives to benzodiazepines. SSRIs and SNRIs, the first-line medications for anxiety, are considered safer alternatives to non-controlled substances. Another significant benefit to medical detox programs best alternative to xanax is the ease of continuing into inpatient treatment.

Non-Addictive Alternatives to Xanax

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.

At Sana Lake Rehab in St. Louis, we offer a variety of alternatives to benzodiazepines for anxiety and sleep. This includes trained therapists, medication-assisted therapy, and holistic therapies. These sedatives have been studied and shown to be effective in promoting sleep and reducing anxiety with a lower risk of addiction compared to benzodiazepines. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or supplement. Nootropic supplements — commonly referred to as “smart drugs” — can improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety.

You will want to discuss all of your options with your psychiatric provider, who can make recommendations and adjustments based on your unique needs. While they are all treated differently, SSRIs and SNRIs are among the first-line options for almost all anxiety types. 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. Zinc is an essential mineral found in high concentrations in the brain. Vitamins and minerals may not sound heavy-duty enough to take the place of Xanax, but if you are lacking certain core nutrients, your brain can’t function at its best.

This positions it uniquely, as it offers both relaxation and mental clarity (17). Multiple studies have revealed that lavender oil can effectively reduce generalized anxiety (13). This makes it unique, as it calms the mind without causing drowsiness, a common side effect of many anti-anxiety medications. Research indicates that lemon balm can elevate mood, ease nervousness, and counteract anxiety-related stress (9). Researchers have found that Valerian reduces the physiological symptoms of anxiety, such as palpitations and trembling (6). For instance, combining it with lemon balm or valerian root can provide a more potent calming effect.