From the Guidelines
Buspirone is primarily used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and mild to moderate agitation, as evidenced by its recommended use in patients with these conditions 1.
Treatment Overview
Buspirone works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain, specifically serotonin and dopamine receptors, to help reduce anxiety symptoms. The initial dosage of buspirone is typically 5 mg twice daily, with a maximum recommended dose of 20 mg three times daily 1.
Key Considerations
Unlike benzodiazepines, buspirone is not habit-forming and doesn't cause physical dependence, making it suitable for longer-term anxiety management. It's essential to note that buspirone takes 2-4 weeks to reach full effectiveness, so it's not useful for immediate anxiety relief 1.
Side Effects and Interactions
Common side effects of buspirone include dizziness, headaches, nausea, and nervousness. Buspirone should be taken consistently, with or without food, and patients should avoid grapefruit juice, which can interact with the medication. Unlike some anxiety medications, buspirone doesn't cause significant sedation or impair cognitive function, allowing most people to drive and perform normal daily activities while taking it.
Alternative Uses
In addition to GAD, buspirone may be used to manage panic disorders, as it has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in patients with emphysema 1. However, the primary use of buspirone remains the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and mild to moderate agitation.
From the FDA Drug Label
Buspirone hydrochloride tablets are indicated for the management of anxiety disorder or the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. The efficacy of buspirone hydrochloride tablets has been demonstrated in controlled clinical trials of outpatients whose diagnosis roughly corresponds to Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
Buspirone treats anxiety disorder, specifically Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and provides short-term relief of anxiety symptoms 2.
- It is used to manage symptoms such as motor tension, autonomic hyperactivity, apprehensive expectation, and vigilance and scanning.
- Buspirone is also effective in relieving anxiety in patients with coexisting depressive symptoms.
From the Research
Buspirone Treatment
Buspirone is used to treat various conditions, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
- Chronic anxiety 3, 6
- Mixed symptoms of anxiety and depression 3
- Anxiety in the elderly 3
Off-Label Uses
Buspirone has been studied for its potential use in treating:
- Panic disorder, although results are inconclusive 3, 4
- Major depressive disorder 4
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder 4
- Body dysmorphic disorder 4
- Social phobia 4
- Posttraumatic stress disorder 4, 5
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-induced adverse events 4
- Dementia 4
- Behavioral disturbances 4
- Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder 4
- Tobacco dependency 4
Comparison to Other Treatments
Buspirone has been compared to benzodiazepines, with similar anxiolytic properties but fewer side effects and less risk of dependence 3, 5, 6