There are no FDA-approved over-the-counter (OTC) medications specifically for treating anxiety disorders. Medications that alter brain chemistry for anxiety require a prescription from a doctor or psychiatrist for careful supervision due to potential side effects, drug interactions, and the risk of dependence.
There are currently no over-the-counter anxiety treatment options. There are natural remedies that some believe provide relief, with some evidence. Most talk therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy, do not require medications.
Certain antidepressants are also used to treat anxiety disorders. An anti-anxiety medication called buspirone may be prescribed. In limited circumstances, your doctor may prescribe other types of medications, such as sedatives, also called benzodiazepines, or beta blockers.
Scientific studies confirm a direct link between deficiencies in certain nutrients and symptoms of anxiety. Specifically, vitamin D and B vitamin deficiencies are strongly linked to the development of anxiety disorders.
Stress management techniques, such as exercise, mindfulness, and meditation, also can reduce anxiety symptoms and enhance the effects of psychotherapy. You can learn more about how these techniques benefit your treatment by talking with a health care provider.
It has recently been discovered that taking high doses of vitamin B6 supplements significantly reduces feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Deficiencies in B vitamins, particularly B12, B6, and B9, have been linked to symptoms of depression and anxiety. These vitamins are vital in producing chemicals, like serotonin, that affect mood.
5-4-3-2-1 exercise for anxiety FAQs
It involves identifying 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste. By doing so, it helps shift your focus from anxiety-provoking thoughts to the present moment.
People often describe a panic attack to feeling like they are going to pass out, explains Chapman. The heart may feel as if it's beating very hard or racing. “If someone feels as if they're losing control during a panic attack, they might start holding their chest and changing their breathing,” says Chapman.
Common OTC supplement options for anxiety
Anxiety can trigger physical symptoms, including diarrhea, due to its impact on the digestive system. Studies show a strong correlation between anxiety disorders and gastrointestinal issues. Practical strategies like mindfulness and dietary changes can provide relief.
Types of Anti-anxiety Medications (Benzodiazepines)
All benzodiazepines work the same way; however, the intensity and duration of their effects vary. Benzodiazepines most commonly used to treat anxiety disorders are clonazepam (Rivotril)*, alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan).
Anxiety affects not just the mind but also the body, often leading to physical symptoms such as nausea. Many individuals experience an upset stomach, queasiness, or digestive discomfort when feeling anxious.
Five common anxiety symptoms include excessive worry, restlessness, a racing heart/shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, and trouble concentrating, often accompanied by physical signs like muscle tension, sweating, trembling, or digestive upset, and behavioral changes such as avoiding triggers.
If fear or worry won't go away and is affecting your daily activities — or if you think you might have an anxiety disorder — see your doctor.
How to Know If You Need Anxiety Medication
Worry excessively about everyday things. Have trouble controlling their worries or feelings of nervousness. Feel irritable or “on edge” frequently. Feel restless or have trouble relaxing.
“Rhythmic, aerobic exercise of moderate to low intensity, such as walking or jogging for 15 to 30 minutes at least three times weekly is associated with reduced anxiety,” Dr. Swantek said. “Other activities such as tai chi, yoga or meditation regularly accomplished can also help control anxiety."
When you're stressed, the nervous system sends signals to your gut and intestines, triggering the muscles involved in digestion to go into a “fight or flight” response. They can react by quickly pushing waste through your system, causing nausea, cramping, bloating or diarrhea.
Symptoms of stress
Stress diarrhea is loose stools that occur when you are dealing with stressful situations. If stress is the cause of your diarrhea, you may also experience one or more of the following symptoms2,3: Headaches or neck tension.
To reduce anxiety immediately, use deep breathing (like the 4-7-8 method), ground yourself by focusing on your senses or 5-4-3-2-1 technique, try progressive muscle relaxation (tense and release muscles), engage in quick physical activity, or distract yourself with a short, enjoyable task or by shifting focus to another language. These techniques calm the nervous system and shift your focus from anxious thoughts to the present moment.
Vitamins B9 and B12 are both thought to treat symptoms of anxiety. Folic acid has many uses in the body, and a vitamin B9 deficiency has been linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression. When taken in conjunction with B12, these B super-vitamins help metabolize serotonin, which is important for mood regulation.