Can breathing exercises replace medication?
Written by
Thomas Wilson
Reviewed by
Prof. Graham Pierce, Ph.D.Breathing exercises are a valuable adjunct to medication alongside prescription medications, but should not be substituted for prescribed medications without medical approval. They relieve symptoms such as anxiety and high blood pressure as they invoke a natural physiological response. They can also be valuable adjuncts to conventional medicine if used with discretion.
Anxiety Management
- Reduces cortisol 20-25% alongside SSRIs
- Decreases medication dependency over time
- Provides immediate symptom relief between doses
Hypertension Control
- Lowers systolic BP 10-15 mmHg with medication
- Enhances drug efficacy through better circulation
- Reduces need for dosage increases during stress
Pain Modulation
- Increases endorphins complementing analgesics
- Reduces perceived pain intensity during flare-ups
- Diminishes reliance on PRN medications
These techniques work together with medications but address different physiological mechanisms. The drugs attack biochemical pathways; breathing works on the nervous system's response. This dual approach addresses both levels and often has far better results than either one alone. Communication with your health providers about all therapies is essential.
Some documented cases report reduced needs for medication with consistent practice of the exercise. Hypertensive cases have often shown that smaller doses are required. Those suffering from anxiety disorders report lessened frequency of intermediate symptoms. Never self-adjust your medication on the grounds of improvement in breathing alone. Medical supervision is an absolute necessity for safety.
Align breathing exercises with drug action. Breathe before the medication peak for synergy. Anxiety patients use techniques during medication onset. Patients with pain breathe before pain therapy. Integration has maximum therapeutic benefit.
Consider if there are situations that require medical attention despite practicing regularly. If you suddenly experience a change in your symptoms, contact your provider immediately. Breathing will not replace emergency treatments for an acute condition. Just remember, these three techniques are to consider when caring for your long-term wellness as part of your overall approach to care.
Read the full article: 10 Breathing Exercises for Daily Wellness
