10 Effective Gabapentin Alternatives for Anxiety

Medication Alternatives to Gabapentin for Anxiety

1. SSRIs (e.g., Lexapro, Zoloft, Prozac)

SSRIs help you function better by reducing anxious thoughts. They also help with physical symptoms of anxiety, like muscle tension and difficulty sleeping. SSRIs are also an antidepressant, so if you have depression in addition to anxiety (which are commonly coupled together), these medications a might be a good treatment option. 

2. SNRIs (e.g., Effexor XR, Cymbalta)

  and energy levels.

3. Buspirone

One benefit of Buspirone is that it doesn’t cause drowsiness or alter thinking like some other anti-anxiety drugs do. It’s generally well-tolerated and can be a good option if you’re worried about habit-forming medications.

4. Hydroxyzine

Hydroxyzine is in the class of drugs known as antihistamines. It’s prescribed for short-term use to treat anxiety or insomnia. We don’t know exactly how or why Hydroxyzine works for anxiety, but it’s believed to affect both histamine and serotonin levels in the brain, helping to calm the nervous system and promote sleep. 

5. Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)

It’s worth noting that beta-blockers don’t address the underlying cause of anxiety. They are used for temporary relief from anxiety symptoms in stressful situations. You may use them before you have to speak publicly or if you have a job interview. Beta-blockers are typically used on an as-needed basis and aren’t prescribed long-term. 

6. Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan) – short-term only

Benzodiazepines (or “benzos”) are fast-acting drugs that offer quick relief. They can help if your anxiety causes panic attacks, restlessness, or muscle tension. 

Bb work by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, which calms the body and mind. 

Like some other anxiety drugs, benzodiazepines are not recommended for long-term use. It also doesn’t treat the underlying cause of anxiety. When you compare  Ativan and Xanax vs. Gabapentin, the benzodiazepines have a higher risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal. If your anxiety is severe enough that it’s impacting your daily life, though, benzodiazepines might be used as a “quick fix” until you have a solid, effective treatment plan in place. 

“Benzodiazepines are only to be used temporarily and in severe cases of anxiety. This is because the medication can become addictive if taken daily. This is the reason it is not an effective treatment for long-term anxiety. Benzodiazepines are considered stronger than the non-habit-forming alternatives (propranolol and hydroxyzine). The stronger potency of benzodiazepines comes at the risk of becoming dependent on the medications if used long-term.” 

– Talkspace therapist Dr. Dion Metzger, MD

Natural Alternatives to Gabapentin for Anxiety

If you’re curious about natural alternatives to Gabapentin to manage your anxiety, there are several options to consider. Depending on your needs, symptoms, and preferences, you might be able to use some of these instead of or in addition to another medication or therapy.  ​ 

7. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

8. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

Mindfulness practices teach you to stay in the moment and be grounded, so they can help if you let anxious thoughts about the past or worries about the future affect your life and relationships. 

9. Lifestyle adjustments (exercise, sleep, nutrition)

Making even simple changes to your life and daily routine can relieve anxiety. Exercising regularly, getting sufficient sleep, and maintaining a balanced diet are all effective ways to regulate mood and alleviate stress. Small changes, like going for a walk or having a healthy meal, can make a bigger difference than you might realize. 

10. Herbal and natural remedies (e.g., lavender, L-theanine)

Before trying any natural alternative to Gabapentin, talk to your doctor. They will assess your condition and symptoms, look at other drugs you’re currently taking or have taken in the past, and help you find something with limited risk of interactions or severe side effects.

“Many herbal supplements contain ingredients that can potentially interfere with the medications you are already taking. As these supplements are not FDA approved, there is more risk for side effects and drug interactions from the unknown ingredients.”

– Talkspace therapist Dr. Dion Metzger, MD

Choosing the Right Alternative with a Provider

Finding an anxiety treatment plan that works takes time and patience. What is effective for someone else might not work at all for you, so it’s important to keep in contact with your doctor until you find a plan that works. A qualified mental health professional or your doctor will consider your symptoms, health history, and other medications. Together, you can find a treatment plan that helps you achieve your long-term goals without letting anxiety get in the way.

Explore Anxiety Treatment Options with Talkspace

Talkspace connects you with a licensed psychiatric provider so you can find the most effective, appropriate alternative to Gabapentin. Whether you’re worried about gabapentin withdrawal and side effects, you’re not getting the results you want from your medication, or you’re exploring a more natural route, Talkspace can help you with medication management and treatment support.

Manage your Gabapentin prescription online or find alternatives with help from Talkspace providers today.