Can Buspirone Cause Raynaud's Phenomenon?
Buspirone is not a recognized cause of Raynaud's phenomenon based on current medical evidence. The provided evidence does not list buspirone among the medications known to induce or worsen Raynaud's phenomenon.
Medications That DO Cause Raynaud's Phenomenon
The established drug-induced causes of Raynaud's phenomenon include 1, 2, 3:
- Ergot alkaloids - well-documented vasoconstrictors 1, 3
- Beta-blockers - can induce or worsen Raynaud's 1, 3
- Clonidine - known to trigger vasospasm 1, 3
- Bleomycin - chemotherapy agent associated with vascular toxicity 1, 3
Important Clinical Context
Buspirone was used successfully in a case report as treatment for a patient WITH Raynaud's phenomenon 4. A 14-year-old patient who developed persistent Raynaud's phenomenon after methylphenidate use was started on atomoxetine and buspirone as alternative ADHD management, suggesting buspirone was considered safe in this vascular context 4.
Stimulant Medications and Raynaud's Risk
If you're asking about buspirone because a patient has ADHD or anxiety, note that stimulant medications (not buspirone) are the concerning agents 4, 5:
- Methylphenidate has documented cases of causing persistent Raynaud's phenomenon 4, 5
- Sympathomimetic drugs in general can cause vasoconstriction leading to secondary Raynaud's 5
- The Raynaud's from methylphenidate can persist for months even after discontinuation 4
Clinical Recommendation
Buspirone can be safely used in patients at risk for or with existing Raynaud's phenomenon. If a patient develops Raynaud's symptoms while on buspirone, investigate other causes including 1, 2:
- Underlying connective tissue diseases (systemic sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Other medications (beta-blockers, ergots, clonidine)
- Occupational exposures (vibration injury, cold exposure)
- Prothrombotic conditions
- Atherosclerotic disease
The key pitfall is attributing Raynaud's to buspirone when the actual culprit is a concurrent medication or underlying disease 2, 3.