Over-The-Counter Anxiety Medicines- Supplements & Herbs
There are many over-the-counter anxiety medicines available in the form of supplements and vitamins. While they cannot replace anti-anxiety medications, these OTC supplements fill up the deficiency in our bodies that leads to anxiety and stress.
If you suffer from stress, anxiety disorders, and panic disorder, visit Therapy Fleet and book an online appointment. Our experts will review your medical history, offer medical advice, and offer different treatment options to you. The treatment plan might consist of anti-anxiety drugs, therapy, or OTC, depending on the seriousness of your diagnosis.
Do I Need Medicine for Anxiety?
Anxiety and stress are almost a part of our daily lives now. With technological advancement, everyone works hard to stay on top, compromising their mental health. About 19.1 % of adults suffer from anxiety disorders in the USA alone. While we cannot do much about the workload, we definitely can prioritize our mental health to keep mental disorders minimal.
Anxiety is a mental health condition that is characterized by an unpleasant emotion or inner turmoil. It usually occurs because of constant worrying about the future. People suffering from anxiety usually have physical symptoms like high heart rate, brain, confusion, and stomach issues. Sometimes, anxiety is mild; sometimes, it’s serious. If you suffer from severe anxiety, you need to get yourself treated. If you want to avoid prescription drugs because of adverse effects, try natural supplements, as they have fewer side effects.
Treatment Plans for Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety and stress need proper treatment; if not diagnosed on time, they can cause anxiety vomiting, and psychogenic fever. Talk to your medical professional and share your concerns with them.
Based on the diagnosis’s seriousness, prescription medications or psychotherapy will be recommended.
A. Prescription Anti-Anxiety Drugs
If your mental health care provider feels you need an anti-anxiety medication, they will prescribe the following class of antidepressants, which includes;
1. Non-addictive Anxiety Medications Like SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs (Tricyclic Antidepressants)
The first line of treatment for anxiety disorders is selective serotonin, reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. There are many SSRIs, but the most common ones are Lexapro, Wellbutrin, and Zoloft.
After analysis, your doctor will either prescribe Lexapro and Wellbutrin together for anxiety or Lexapro alone, depending on your diagnosis. If you want to know how much time Lexapro takes to work for anxiety, read this blog.
Wellbutrin is effective in treating anxiety disorders like social anxiety disorder, and the best part is that Wellbutrin does not cause weight gain as a side effect. Find out how long Wellbutrin stays in the system.
Anxiety often leads to major depressive orders. Doctors might give Zoloft and Wellbutrin for that.
Read in detail about the Best Options for Non-Addictive Anxiety Medications.
Note- Do not combine Alcohol with Lexapro.
2. Addictive Anti-anxiety Medications like Benzodiazepines
Addictive drugs like Xanax work for sleep as it offers immediate relief. It is also used to make insomniac people fall asleep.
3. Anticonvulsants
Anticonvulsants like Gabapentin are FDA-approved for nerve pain and seizures, but it is used for anxiety off label too.
4. Clonidine HCL
Clonidine HCL is used to lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood pressure and keeping the heart rate normal.
B. Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, better known as speech anxiety online therapy, works alongside prescription drugs. One such type of psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps change the thoughts of the individual.
For same-day anxiety medication prescription and online anxiety treatment, get help from Therapy Fleet DEA-certified therapists today.
Over-The-Counter Anxiety Medications
Let’s review the seven different over-the-counter anxiety medications that contain vitamins and supplements.
1. Magnesium Supplements
According to different studies, magnesium is an excellent remedy to get rid of mild anxiety and is helpful for individuals suffering from daily anxiety and stress, like premenstrual syndrome.
Magnesium is found in legumes, nuts, greens, whole grains, and seeds. It supports cell functions and regulates moods and emotions. Magnesium deficiency can cause anxiety and other mental health disorders.
2. Omega-3
Omega-3 is an effective over-the-counter anxiety medication. You can also find it in fish, some nuts, and seeds. Research shows that Omega-3 regulates mood disorders. Lack of it in our diet can cause different mental illnesses like anxiety in young adults.
3. L-theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes calmness and concentration in people who use it regularly. You can find L-theanine in teas. Research shows that it is highly efficient in promoting calmness without adverse reactions. It is a natural anxiolytic medication used to treat anxiety symptoms.
4. Lavender
Lavender is a commonly used over-the-counter anxiety medication. You can take it orally or use lavender for aromatherapy. It is effective in reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. For centuries, lavender has been used in medicinal remedies. Different studies suggest its efficacy in reducing anxiety symptoms and for insomnia.
5. Ashwagandha
This ancient remedy is derived from a plant found in North Africa and India. Extensive research has been conducted that shows Ashwagandha’s ability to reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels, which, in turn, reduces anxiety and stress symptoms.
6. Chamomile
Chamomile is commonly found in teas, essential oils, etc. This over-the-counter anxiety medication is a flowering plant used for calming effects and anti-inflammatory properties. Although, more research needs to be conducted on chamomile’s efficiency in reducing anxiety.
7. Valerian
Like chamomile, Valerian is also a flowering plant, but unlike chamomile, Valerian is extensively used in herbal supplements and is effective in treating insomnia. When it comes to anxiety, there are mixed reviews on its effectiveness. But, if your anxiety is related to insomnia, Valerian is the plant for you. Some studies show it as effective, while others report no changes.
Are Over-The-Counter Anxiety Medications Effective?
OTC medications are not as effective as anti-anxiety prescription medications, and they are not the first line of treatment for anxiety. Your mental health care provider will either prescribe anti-anxiety drugs or recommend therapy like CBT. Over-the-counter anxiety medications are usually given to complement these treatments. These natural remedies are for long-term use; they reduce feelings of anxiety without many potential side effects. If you suffer from other medical conditions, consult your healthcare professionals before starting OTCs.
Note- Do not start using over-the-counter anxiety medications without prior consultation from a mental health care provider.
Safety Measures and Considerations of Over-The-Counter Anxiety Medications
If you decide to use OTC anxiety drugs, you should be aware of the side effects, too, along with the benefits. There are drug interactions, too, that you need to consider. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting with over-the-counter anxiety medications or supplements.
Side Effects & Risks of Over the Counter Anxiety Medicines
The side effects are only minor to mild. Ensure you monitor the seriousness of the side effects plus their durations.
- Drowsiness
- Nausea and Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
If these side effects do not resolve independently after a week or so, make an appointment with your doctor.
Tips to Manage Anxiety Without Over-The-Counter Anxiety Medications – Get Help From Therapy Fleet Today
Apart from prescription drugs, OTCs, and therapy, there are other natural ways to ease the symptoms of anxiety. Lifestyle changes help, along with dietary supplements and changes.
- Use essential oils—Aromatherapy has been helping to remove anxiety symptoms for some time. You can use lavender, rose, or any citrus-based scents.
- Limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine as it leads to anxiety and panic attacks.
- Try to quit smoking. Studies show that using cigarettes is directly linked to increasing anxiety levels.
- Try to incorporate meditation, breathing exercises, and daily walks. These activities are considered to help lower stress levels.
- Sleep on time and establish a sleep routine. If you have insomnia, ask your healthcare provider to prescribe sleeping pills like Mirtazipine and Ramelton. The focus is on improving sleep quality.
- Try acupuncture- it’s effective in reducing anxiety, although not many studies agree with that.
Final Thoughts
If you decide to treat your anxiety symptoms with over-the-counter anxiety medications, know that OTC anxiety medications are only vitamins and supplements, and natural anxiety medications are only available with prescription anxiety medication. Anxiety drugs change the chemistry of the brain, and these OTC supplements only compensate for deficiencies.
We just saw seven herbal supplements for reducing anxiety symptoms. They are widely used in collaboration with prescription drugs and therapy. All seven OTCs are widely available and highly effective in reducing stress and anxiety symptoms. You can find these OTCs in local pharmacies and other convenience stores. However, always consult your mental health care provider before using any new supplements, mainly if you use other prescription drugs for different health conditions.
Your strength lies in every step you take, no matter how small. Keep going – you’re not alone in this fight.
FAQs
1. Is there anything over-the-counter for anxiety?
Yes, you can find many over-the-counter anxiety medications and supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, ashwagandha, magnesium, etc. These supplements are quite beneficial in reducing the symptoms of stress and anxiety by promoting calmness and relaxation. Other herbal remedies include lemon balm, chamomile, and valerian root.
2. What is the 3-3-3 rule for anxiety?
The 3-3-3 rule is a way to distract yourself during an anxiety attack. You must identify three things you see, three things you can move, and three things you can hear. By shifting your attention to your present, you break and shift your focus from the anxiety attack.
3. Are anxiety pills safe?
Anxiety pills like Xanax are safe only when used in moderation and for short periods. Do not combine them with other central nervous system depressants, as the combination can prove to be fatal.
