Alternative to Xanax?

Question

A couple years ago, I was prescribed Xanax to handle my anxieties. But I quickly did not like them b/c they caused me to get extremely sleepy!! It took the edge off but I could hardly keep my eyes open. I have also used them as sleeping pills (per the doctor's instructions) but find that the sleepiness IS STILL THERE when I awake after a full night (8 hours) of rest!!

Do you know of any anti-anxiety medication that helps like Xanax without the drowsiness?? I really need something that will allow me to function after taking it!!

Answer 1

Its a little tricky to give you ideas without a specific diagnosis. But here are some thoughts. Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication that is minimally sedating. It works OK, but not as well as Xanax or other benzodiazepines like Valium, Klonopon, and Ativan. It might be worth a try.

Antidepressants are also help with anxiety but require 6-8 weeks to work. Citalopram and fluoxetine are two good meds that are generic so you can get them for $4/month. Most people say they are less sedating that Xanax.

Finally, psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, works really well for anxiety. Therapy costs more up front and requires an investment of of time, but the benefits are good. The treatment is usually long lasting after you stop therapy and obviously it has no side effects like sedation.