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Non-Drowsy Alternatives to Serotonin

The human brain produces a hormone known as serotonin, which is responsible for basic happiness levels. If the brain produces too little or too much serotonin naturally, nerve-related conditions are possible. Generally, doctors prescribe prescription drugs known as serotonin receptors to deal with imbalances. However, many of these medications cause drowsiness and other unwanted symptoms of sluggishness. Some alternatives treatments are more favorable to alertness.

  1. St. John's Wort

    • St. John's Wort is an herb that is sometimes used for the same reasons as serotonin receptors, which includes anxiety attacks and some forms of depression. It is taken as a tea, capsule, pill or liquid, and it does not require a physician's prescription. The side effects do not seem to concentrate on drowsiness, although it is sometimes used for sleeping disorders. The listed side effects are a possible sensitivity to light, stomach problems, dry mouth, sexual dysfunction and fatigue.

    Kava

    • Kava, an herbal product often taken as a drink, including tea, has calming effects similar to serotonin receptors, but without the drowsy aspect. One of its strongest traits is that it keeps the mind alert as it eases stress and anxiety in a natural way; according to Kava Root.com, it encourages happy, tranquil feelings. It is also known as piper methysticum, and its origins are in the South Pacific, starting in Melanesia, where it grows wild. Its history involves both ceremonial and medicinal use, all related to its soothing properties and effects.

    Azaspirones

    • Prescription drug products, sometimes used instead of serotonin receptors, are from the family of Azaspirones, which are a class of medications used to treat the symptoms of anxiety. Users should not expect instant results. They work gradually, generally over a time frame of several weeks. However, these drugs are free of harsh side effects. They do not cause drowsiness, and they also do not tend to create memory or balance problems. According to Anxiety Secrets.com, " It has not been said to cause that 'out of it!' feeling."

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