What Are Some Non-Addictive Anxiety Medication Options?

Some of the non-addictive anxiety medications available include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), hydroxyzine, buspirone, and beta blockers. These medications can be good alternatives to controlled substances like benzodiazepines that may treat anxiety, but also contribute to other conditions such as substance use disorder. They may be especially beneficial for individuals with a personal or family history of drug abuse or addiction.

Receiving appropriate treatment for anxiety disorders can be challenging. Many of the medications used to treat panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and other types of anxiety disorders are controlled substances like benzodiazepines that carry a significant risk of dependence and substance abuse. These substances should be avoided, especially for people with a higher risk of physical dependence.

There are alternatives to addictive benzodiazepine medications that can be just as effective for treating symptoms of anxiety. If you have an anxiety disorder, you can ask your doctor or mental health care provider about non-addictive anti-anxiety medications to treat your symptoms. A comprehensive treatment plan for anxiety disorders may also include therapy, lifestyle changes, and coping strategies.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, also known as SSRIs, are first-line treatments for both depression and anxiety disorders. These medications work by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. [1] SSRIs are also used to treat other mental health conditions that cause anxiety, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Types of SSRIs

There are various types of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Although they may have the same basic mechanism, there are slight differences that could make a big difference. It’s not uncommon for people to try various types of SSRIs before finding one that works for them. Your doctor can help you decide which is best for you. Common types of SSRIs include:

• Escitalopram (Lexapro)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)

Side Effects of SSRIs

SSRIs aren’t considered addictive, but there may be some other side effects associated with their use. Some potential SSRI side effects include: [2]

• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Stomach upset
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Sexual side effects

Ask your doctor about any other risks of SSRIs, such as serotonin syndrome, as well as any possible drug interactions.

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs for short, block the reabsorption of both serotonin and the neurotransmitter norepinephrine in the brain. [3]This makes more of these brain chemicals available to combat conditions like depression and anxiety.

Types of SNRIs

There are different types of SNRIs, including: [4]

• Venlafaxine (Effexor)
• Levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
• Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
• Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)

Consult with your doctor to determine which SNRI is most suitable for you, taking into account your specific symptoms and medical history.

SNRI Side Effects

People taking SNRIs often report side effects such as: [5]

• Constipation
• Headache
• Excessive sweating
• Low sexual desire or sexual dysfunction
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Decreased appetite

Buspirone

Buspirone, also known by the brand name BuSpar, is a prescription medication designed specifically to treat anxiety. Buspirone works by balancing levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain.

Side Effects of Buspirone

Some commonly reported side effects of buspirone include: [6]

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nervousness
• Drowsiness
• Trouble sleeping

Beta-Blockers

Beta-blockers are primarily used to treat cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats. They’re commonly used off-label for the treatment of anxiety, though. Beta blockers are often prescribed for situational anxiety rather than for anxiety disorders. [7] They don’t treat the source of the anxiety, but they can address the short-term physical symptoms of anxiety.

Types of Beta Blockers

There are two basic categories of beta blockers: selective and non-selective beta blockers. Selective beta blockers target symptoms related to the heart. Non-selective beta blockers address heart-related symptoms as well as other symptoms throughout the body. Examples of beta-blockers include: [8]

• Propranolol
• Timolol
• Atenolol
• Brisoprolol
• Labetalol
• Nadolol

Side Effects of Beta Blockers

Side effects of beta blockers can include: [9]

• Decreased heart rate
• Low blood pressure
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia
• Nightmares

Hydroxyzine

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine often prescribed for allergic reactions such as hives or dermatitis. Hydroxyzine, an antihistamine with sedative properties, is sometimes used off-label or as an alternative treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), especially when short-term relief is needed or other treatments are not suitable. [10] Unlike other antihistamines, hydroxyzine can also increase serotonin in the brain, contributing to its anti-anxiety effects. Hydroxyzine is intended for short-term use and is not generally prescribed for more than four months.

Side Effects of Hydroxyzine

Hydroxyzine side effects may include: [11]

• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Dry eye
• Dry mouth

Non-Medication-Based Anxiety Treatments

Not everyone with an anxiety disorder takes medication to manage it. Some effective treatment options don’t require a prescription or a trip to the drug store.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is usually recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment for anxiety disorders, whether you choose to also take medications or not. The type of therapy you receive may depend on the type of anxiety disorder you’re diagnosed with, but a common approach is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a therapeutic approach that encourages people to examine any negative thoughts that may be contributing to their anxiety symptoms. They then learn to reframe these thoughts, making them more helpful to the situation and less anxiety-provoking.

Coping Strategies

For people with anxiety, symptoms often disrupt various aspects of their lives, including work, school, and relationships. In addition to therapy, a mental health care provider may also teach you coping strategies to manage your anxiety symptoms daily. Coping strategies you’ll learn in therapy may include:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Grounding techniques
• Relaxation techniques
• Meditation
• Journaling

Lifestyle Changes

A mental health care provider may also suggest making certain changes to your lifestyle to support your progress in therapy. Recommended lifestyle changes for managing symptoms of anxiety may include:

• Getting regular exercise
• Following a balanced diet
• Adopting a consistent sleep routine
• Learning stress management techniques

Non-Addictive Relief for Anxiety

If you suffer from an anxiety disorder, you deserve effective treatment that is also non-addictive. There are many alternatives to dangerous and addictive anxiety medications like Xanax and Valium. Antidepressants like SSRIs, for instance, are often prescribed for long-term use. These medications have been linked to positive outcomes for people with anxiety disorders and other mental health disorders and do not carry the risk of addiction or abuse.

If you’re experiencing anxiety symptoms, don’t try to self-medicate. This is often ineffective and can lead to serious problems such as addiction and overdose. You need a clinical evaluation and diagnosis to determine what type of anxiety disorder you have. Different anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or social anxiety disorder, for example, may require different treatment approaches.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may be able to manage an anxiety disorder without the use of prescription drugs. Ask your treatment provider which approach is best for you.