Natural Alternatives to Benzodiazepines

alternatives to xanax

Each one of these medications acts upon the brain in a very similar way, so each one of these benzodiazepines could be an effective Xanax alternative. These medications attach themselves to specific receptors in the brain, enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and depressing the central nervous system. As a result, nerve cell activity is more strongly suppressed, leading to feelings of sedation, relaxation, and a reduction in anxiety. Benzodiazepines are a class of sedative-hypnotic prescription drugs used to treat conditions such as anxiety, epilepsy, and insomnia.

It’s not yet known if insurers will cover the drug, but Vertex has said it will have a patient assistance program for people who cannot afford it. Journavx was generally safe and well tolerated in the clinical trials. The participants were randomly assigned to get either Journavx, a placebo, a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen (a combination formerly marketed as Vicodin).

They act as agonists to GABA and help with the influx of chloride ions into neurons resulting in a stabilization and hyperpolarization effect on the cell membrane. They bind to the GABA-A ligand-gated chloride channel neuron at its benzodiazepine receptor. Ativan and Xanax both have addictive properties, which makes them unsuitable for a long-term prescription. Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) is an antihistamine that’s sometimes prescribed to treat anxiety or insomnia.

Would Journavx Work for Chronic Pain?

Not all cases of anxiety need to be treated alternatives to xanax with medication, especially when symptoms are mild, transient, or don’t cause functional impairment. In fact, many people can reduce their symptoms with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) alone. Propranolol (Inderal) belongs to a group of medications called beta-blockers.

In doing so, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs) can help with mood regulation, sleep, and emotional health. Physical dependence can begin within a few days of taking the drug, even when taking it as prescribed, depending on the individual and their proclivity to develop physical dependence. While common painkillers like ibuprofen carry few side effects, they’re not potent enough to relieve severe pain. Opioids, though effective, can cause serious side effects and carry a high potential for misuse. You know, it’s a new branded drug, which means it’s expensive, especially compared to, you know, a bottle of ibuprofen.

What is Similar to Xanax but Not Addictive?

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. Like Xanax, Klonopin also acts on the GABA receptors in the CNS, but the effects of Klonopin last longer when Klonopin vs. Xanax are compared. Alprazolam, however, leaves the body quickly, and so frequent consumption of Xanax pills is needed. The half-life contracts of Klonopin vs. Xanax are quite big; the half-life of Klonopin is longer, i.e., 30 to 40 hours.

alternatives to xanax

Xanax Alternatives: Compare Nonaddictive Anxiety Meds

By broadening the understanding of available alternatives, individuals and healthcare professionals can make informed decisions that prioritize both anxiety relief and long-term well-being. Clonazepam (brand name Klonopin) is another oral benzodiazepine used to treat panic disorder. Unlike Xanax, it’s also FDA-approved to treat certain seizure disorders.

What are the best alternatives to benzodiazepines?

For this reason, Xanax is often taken to treat sudden-onset symptoms or short-term anxiety. Other commonly prescribed drugs of this class include diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin), temazepam (Restoril), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and midazolam (Versed). Journavx, Vertex’s new non-opioid painkiller, is an alternative for managing moderate-to-severe acute pain without the risk of addiction. Clinical trials showed it provides similar pain relief to opioids, but with fewer side effects. In addition, ashwagandha, probiotics, magnesium, and B vitamins have been found to enhance the body’s resilience to stress and promote neurotransmitter balance, which lowers the risk of anxiety disorders.

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  • The researchers concluded it has positive effects similar to the effects of standard anti-anxiety medications (20-22).
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Recognizing these early signals can make all the difference in the recovery journey, and knowing when to reach out for assistance can be lifesaving. Anxiety is an invisible yet potent force, shaping the lives of millions around the globe. For many, medication serves as a refuge from the relentless grip of worry and panic. To view a report comparing 3 (or more) medications, please sign in or create an account.

  • Millions of people are prescribed anti-anxiety medications to help relieve their debilitating symptoms.
  • The half-life contracts of Klonopin vs. Xanax are quite big; the half-life of Klonopin is longer, i.e., 30 to 40 hours.
  • At Talkiatry, first visits are generally scheduled for 60 minutes or more to give your psychiatrist time to learn about you, work on a treatment plan, and discuss any medications that might be included.
  • Be sure to talk with your provider about how you can decrease your dependence and manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
  • These natural remedies work by interacting with the body’s stress-response system or impacting neurotransmitters to offer a calming effect and reduce anxiety symptoms.
  • While some benzodiazepine alternatives offer a reduced risk of dependence, non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics, SSRIs, SNRIs, beta-blockers and antihistamines present non-addictive options.

Xanax (alprazolam) belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines and works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. It is important to note that the prescribed medication will depend on the individual’s needs and preferences and their healthcare provider’s recommendations. Medication is often used with other therapies, such as psychotherapy, to treat anxiety disorders effectively. It may take several weeks for SSRIs and SNRIs to alleviate anxiety symptoms, and they should be taken consistently to maintain effectiveness. Passionflower can have positive effects on symptoms of anxiety, and several studies suggest it may be a promising alternative to prescription drugs.

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