Numerous studies have evaluated CBT’s impact on conditions ranging from mental and physical disorders to behavioral problems. Research suggests that CBT can be effective for conditions like anxiety, depression, and many other mental health concerns 8. 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.

Side Effects Of Xanax Use

Many of Xanax’s side effects are also experienced as withdrawal symptoms after stopping Xanax too quickly. Anyone who takes Xanax will want to be aware of the drug’s side effects. Mild side effects tend to be more common, but one of the most serious side effects is the risk of xanax alternative medication addiction. Moreover, understanding the potential pitfalls of medications like Xanax can inform more empowered treatment decisions.

The FDA now requires a boxed warning on all benzodiazepines to improve safety outcomes. The most common side effect that comes with Xanax is daytime grogginess and fatigue because of the ways in which it slows your central nervous system. Get regular updates from RedBox Rx about conditions, treatments and special offers. Get started on your anxiety treatment journey with our online assessment.

Talkspace mental health services

The half-life contracts of Klonopin vs. Xanax are quite big; the half-life of Klonopin is longer, i.e., 30 to 40 hours. Both have the potential for dependence and addiction with long-term higher doses. 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. Anxiolytic medications, also known as anti-anxiety drugs, are psychiatric medications used to prevent and treat anxiety disorders. Anxiolytic medications target key neurotransmitters in the brain, which serve as chemical messengers that send signals between different nerve cells in the brain.

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Non-pharmacological interventions, including therapy and lifestyle changes, should be considered in conjunction with medication. These approaches can enhance the overall effectiveness of anxiety management. Chamomile, a commonly used natural remedy for anxiety, is known for its calming properties.

Prescription alternatives to Xanax

Benzodiazepines all have a basic chemical structure that increases the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This transmitter inhibits the activity of neurons, essentially slowing down the brain and the nervous system. Stopping Xanax use can cause uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

Specific supplements, including magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, have been found to alleviate anxiety symptom and promote overall mental well-being. Herbal remedies such as chamomile, lavender, and ashwagandha have been found to provide anxiety relief and promote relaxation. Please note that the information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure that any supplement or alternative remedy is appropriate, safe, and effective for your specific health needs and conditions.

• It shouldn’t be used by people taking MAOIs or those who experience seizures or eating disorders.
• It’s important to note that not all people will encounter these side effects, and there may be additional side effects not listed here.
• Still, it’s vital to recognize that this is just one among many anxiolytic medications and one of many options to treat generalized anxiety disorder.
• AddictionResource aims to present the most accurate, trustworthy, and up-to-date medical content to our readers.
• Get online psychiatry and medication prescriptions and management from Talkspace by reaching out today.
• The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s relaxation response.

Get Help For A Xanax Addiction

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals manage anxiety symptoms by addressing avoidant behaviors and safety-seeking habits that hinder correcting faulty beliefs.
• It’s essential to remember that addiction isn’t a sign of weakness or a mere lifestyle choice.
• If you’re considering natural Xanax alternatives, L-theanine should be near the top of your list.
• Medications such as lorazepam (Ativan) and clonazepam (Klonopin) offer anxiolytic effects with a more extended duration of action, potentially reducing the risk of dependence compared to Xanax.
• Like Xanax, sleepiness is a common side effect of gabapentin for anxiety.
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• Triclosan is used in thousands of common household products like bedsheets, garbage bags, toys, and even hand sanitizer and mouthwash.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a well-established therapeutic approach for anxiety disorders, aiming to address and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors to promote better mental well-being. Propranolol and atenolol are frequently prescribed beta-blockers for the treatment of anxiety. They have demonstrated effectiveness in addressing the physical symptoms of anxiety, including sweating, shaking, racing heart, and tremors. Luckily, there are alternative anti-anxiety medications with less risk and less severe side effects and withdrawal symptoms. Xanax (alprazolam) belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines and works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain.

Therapy

Our medical staff includes an ASAM certified addiction psychiatrist & an addiction-trained primary care physician. Some antihistamines, like diphenhydramine, are occasionally used for their mild sedative effects to alleviate anxiety symptoms. While not specifically designed for anxiety, they can offer a non-addictive option for certain individuals. While other benzodiazepines share similarities with Xanax, certain options have a less pronounced risk of addiction. Medications such as lorazepam (Ativan) and clonazepam (Klonopin) offer anxiolytic effects with a more extended duration of action, potentially reducing the risk of dependence compared to Xanax.

If Xanax is not taken properly or is used for longer than prescribed, it may lead to a high risk of misuse and physical dependence. Individuals without chronic anxiety often use Xanax to experience its calming effects, but this can lead to a dangerous addiction to the medication. AddictionResource aims to present the most accurate, trustworthy, and up-to-date medical content to our readers. Our team does their best for our readers to help them stay informed about vital healthcare decisions. Calls to any general helpline will be answered by treatment providers, each of which is a paid advertiser.

However, in the majority of people, side effects are mild and disappear after the first few days, and the treatment benefits outweigh the issues. Other antidepressant medications used to treat anxiety not listed here include Lexapro (escitalopram), Prozac (fluoxetine), and buspirone. Halcion is a benzodiazepine medication that is primarily prescribed to temporarily treat symptoms of insomnia. Many other well-known pharmaceuticals also fall within the class of benzodiazepines. They all have slightly different effects and are used to treat various mental and physical ailments. While Xanax has many practical uses related to mental health, its use also comes with some concerning side effects and risks.