Drug Name

Buspar (Buspirone)

Drug Uses

Buspar is indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. Buspirone is especially effective in persons with generalized anxiety of a limited or moderate degree. It is not very effective in persons with severe anxiety, panic disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorders.

How Taken

Take this medication with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take more often than prescribed. Symptoms will begin to improve within 7 to 10 days of starting this medication. However, it may take 3 to 4 weeks for the full benefit of the medication to be apparent.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Buspar is an antianxiety medication that works by stimulating serotonin type 1A receptors on nerves thereby altering the chemical messages that nerves transmit to each other. Unlike the most commonly prescribed antianxiety medications of the benzodiazepine class (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam, alprazolam; clonazepam), Buspar does not cause sedation.

Missed Dose

Take any missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage

Store at room temperature and keep away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

Warnings/Precautions

Before taking Buspar, tell your doctor your medical history especially: kidney or liver disease, any drug allergies. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the dizziness and/or drowsiness effects of buspar. Use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Possible Side Effects

This medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, weakness, vivid dreams, sleeplessness, dry skin, blurred vision, altered sense of taste and smell, weight gain, muscle aches, ringing in the ears, nausea, headaches. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: abnormal movements or "twitches" of the face or neck muscles, other involuntary movements or tremors, depression, confusion, incoordination, chest pain, breathing difficulties. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

More Information

Do not share this medication with others.