Are there any supplements that can help with anxiety and panic disorders?

From the Guidelines

Lavender and passionflower supplements have shown efficacy and safety in treating anxiety, including preoperative anxiety, and can be considered for use in managing anxiety and panic disorders. According to the study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings in 2021 1, lavender supplementation has been shown to be efficacious and safe in the treatment of anxiety, and there is no clinical evidence to suggest that it may potentiate anesthetic effects. Similarly, passionflower has been studied in the perioperative setting and has demonstrated a reduction in anxiety with a good safety profile.

When considering supplements for anxiety and panic disorders, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you are taking medications, as some supplements may interact with prescription drugs. The healthcare provider can help determine the best course of treatment and recommend supplements that are safe and effective.

Some key points to consider when using supplements for anxiety and panic disorders include:

• Starting with one supplement at a time and monitoring for effectiveness and side effects
• Using the lower recommended dose and gradually increasing as needed
• Being aware of potential interactions with prescription medications
• Not relying solely on supplements for treatment, but rather using them to complement professional treatment such as therapy and medication when needed

It is also important to note that while supplements like melatonin 1 have been shown to reduce anxiety in certain contexts, such as preoperative anxiety, the evidence for their use in anxiety and panic disorders is not as strong. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.

In terms of other supplements, the evidence is limited or equivocal, and some supplements, such as kratom 1, may even have adverse effects. Therefore, it is essential to approach the use of supplements with caution and to prioritize evidence-based treatments.

Overall, while some supplements may be helpful in managing anxiety and panic disorders, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider and to prioritize evidence-based treatments. Lavender and passionflower supplements are two options that have shown promise, but they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

From the FDA Drug Label

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION Diazepam tablets are indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Supplements for Anxiety and Panic Disorders

There are several supplements that have been studied for their potential to help with anxiety and panic disorders. Some of these supplements include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Studies have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may have anxiolytic properties and may be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms 2, 3, 4.
• Kava: Kava has been found to have a potential for benefit in patients with mild to moderate anxiety, particularly with short-term use 5, 6.
• Inositol: Inositol has been found to have modest effects in patients with panic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder 5.
• Passionflower: Passionflower has been found to have a positive effect on anxiety symptoms, particularly when used in combination with other herbal supplements 6.
• L-lysine and L-arginine: Combinations of L-lysine and L-arginine have been found to have a positive effect on anxiety symptoms 6.
• Magnesium: Magnesium-containing supplements may hold promise for treating anxiety symptoms, but more research is needed 6.

Dosage and Efficacy

The dosage and efficacy of these supplements can vary depending on the individual and the specific supplement. For example:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: A dose-response meta-analysis found that 2g/d of omega-3 fatty acids resulted in the greatest improvement in anxiety symptoms 3.
• Kava: The potential for benefit of kava seems to be greater than that for harm with short-term use in patients with mild to moderate anxiety 5.
• Inositol: The modest effects of inositol on panic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder suggest that it may be a useful supplement for some individuals 5.

Safety and Side Effects

The safety and side effects of these supplements can also vary depending on the individual and the specific supplement. For example:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to have a low risk of adverse events 3, 4.
• Kava: Kava has been found to have a potential for harm with long-term use or in high doses 5.
• Inositol: Inositol has been found to have a low risk of adverse events 5.