Xanax (Alprazolam) Alternatives | Natural Substitutes & Other Drugs

Many people take alprazolam (brand name Xanax) to treat anxiety disorders like a social phobia and panic disorder. 

As a benzodiazepine (or “benzo”), Xanax makes you feel calm by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter (brain chemical) called gamma-Aminobutyric acid, or GABA. 

However, it can also cause unpleasant side effects like drowsiness, headache, and, in severe cases, memory problems. In addition, if you take Xanax for a long time or in a manner not prescribed by your doctor, you may develop physical dependence and addiction. 

To avoid these issues, most doctors prescribe Xanax only for short-term use. Luckily, there are a number of natural and pharmaceutical alternatives considered safe for long-term use. 

Natural Alternatives To Xanax

The most popular natural substitutes for Xanax include:

Ashwagandha

This ancient herb can naturally lower your stress levels. It’s available in many over-the-counter forms, including tablets, powders, and liquid drops. 

Kava Kava

Extracted from the roots of a plant called Piper methysticum, kava kava may naturally enhance the activity of GABA, much like a benzodiazepine. 

Like ashwagandha, it comes in a variety of forms such as tablets and drops. Some people also mix the substance with water to create a kava kava drink. 

L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea and mushrooms. It’s also available in various supplement forms. 

Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral naturally produced by your body. Eating magnesium-rich foods, such as almonds and beans, or taking magnesium supplements may reduce mild anxiety. 

Probiotics

Probiotics are living microorganisms that can sometimes decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

Like L-Theanine and magnesium, probiotics not only come in supplement form but also appear in foods and drinks, such as pickles, sauerkraut, and kombucha. 

Lifestyle Changes

Healthy activities like exercise, yoga, and meditation can help you reduce anxiety and improve your mental health safely. 

Likewise, cognitive behavioral therapy can help you change unhelpful behaviors and learn how to better manage your anxiety. 

Pharmaceutical Alternatives To Xanax

Prescription medications that can ease anxiety without posing a high risk of addiction include:

Antidepressants

Some people treat their anxiety symptoms with antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIS. Popular SSRIs include sertraline (brand name Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and escitalopram (Lexapro). 

Antihistamines

Although they’re primarily used to treat allergy symptoms, antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and hydroxyzine (Vistaril) can also make you feel calm and relaxed. 

Buspirone (BuSpar)

BuSpar is an anti-anxiety medication that usually takes a few weeks to start working. However, it’s considered much safer than Xanax (and benzodiazepines in general). 

Other Benzodiazepines

If you’d rather stay on a benzodiazepine, you could ask your doctor about trying a different one, such as clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), or lorazepam (Ativan). You might find that one of these drugs causes fewer or milder side effects than Xanax. However, any benzodiazepine will pose a risk of abuse and addiction. 

If you or a loved one is abusing or addicted to Xanax, please contact an Ark Behavioral Health specialist to learn about our comprehensive addiction treatment programs.