It may be used in place of or alongside SSRIs to mitigate unfavorable side effects. Buspironeīuspirone is a unique non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic originally used as an antipsychotic but found to better treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). SNRIs include Effexor (venlafaxine), Cymbalta (duloxetine), and Pristiq (desvenlafaxine). These drugs are typically used if first-line medications like Prozac or Lexapro fail to control or help alleviate anxiety. SNRIs have the same method of action as SSRIs, but they also block the reabsorption of norepinephrine in addition to serotonin. However, in the majority of people, side effects are mild and disappear after the first few days, and the treatment benefits outweigh the issues. SSRIs take around four to eight weeks to take effect and may produce side effects like headache, nausea, trouble sleeping, and dizziness. Drug alternatives in this class used to treat anxiety disorders include Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), Citalopram (Celexa), and Lexapro (escitalopram). Serotonin regulates mood, digestion, sleep, libido, and more. SSRIs block the absorption of the neurotransmitter serotonin. SSRIs and SNRIs are considered the first line treatment for chronic anxiety disorders. SSRIs and SNRIs have lower misuse potential and fewer long-term side effects associated with their use. Here are some of the non-addictive alternatives to Xanax you could try: SSRIs & SNRIsįor many prescribers, the non-addictive drugs of choice to treat anxiety disorders are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Many of these medications can be used on a long-term basis, although it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and downsides of each option, and ask about any long-term health effects a treatment option may have. While benzodiazepines are still commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, there are better options that are generally safer, with a lower risk of addiction. Most importantly, working with a doctor to develop a plan to stop taking benzodiazepines helps protect a person from the most dangerous withdrawal symptoms, allowing them to be addressed before they become life-threatening. Although medical detox cannot prevent withdrawal symptoms, specialists can help reduce the severity of symptoms, alleviate discomfort, and develop a treatment plan. Severe withdrawal symptoms can resemble acute alcohol withdrawal and may include the following:ĭiscontinuing the use of long term benzodiazepines like Xanax should happen under the supervision of a doctor. Quitting after prolonged use can be dangerous, with withdrawal lasting weeks to months. The symptoms of Xanax withdrawal can be severe, especially when stopping the drug abruptly. Physical dependance 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. Long-term side effects of Xanax use include the following:Īdditionally, withdrawal from Xanax comes with serious side effects. However, when taking benzodiazepines more often or for longer than intended, the risk for addiction as well as tolerance and physical dependance increases. When taken properly and treatment does not extend beyond a few weeks, the addiction potential for Xanax is relatively low. Other commonly prescribed drugs of this class include diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin), temazepam (Restoril), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and midazolam (Versed). For this reason, Xanax is often taken to treat sudden onset symptoms or short-term anxiety. Benzodiazepines act on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters to produce a relaxing anti-anxiety effect. Alprazolam, known by the brand name Xanax, is an anti-anxiety drug that belongs to the class of benzodiazepines. Several alternative medications exist if an individual is concerned about this misuse potential or has otherwise struggled with addiction in the past and wants to avoid potentially addictive substances. Xanax has a place in medicine, but it is also a benzodiazepine, a class of drugs that has significant addiction potential.
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