From the FDA Drug Label
In one study of 6,632 patients who received buspirone for the treatment of anxiety, 605 patients were ≥ 65 years old and 41 were ≥ 75 years old; the safety and efficacy profiles for these 605 elderly patients (mean age = 70. 8 years) were similar to those in the younger population (mean age = 43. 3 years). The standard and safe dose of BuSpar for geriatric male patients is not explicitly stated in the drug label.
- Key points:
- The safety and efficacy profiles for elderly patients (≥ 65 years old) were similar to those in the younger population.
- There were no effects of age on the pharmacokinetics of buspirone.
- The administration of buspirone hydrochloride tablets to patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment cannot be recommended. 1
From the Research
For geriatric males, the standard and safe dose of BuSpar (buspirone) typically starts at 5 mg twice daily, which is lower than the standard adult starting dose, and can be gradually increased as needed and tolerated, with a mean dose of 25.7 mg ± 12.50, as reported in a recent study 2. This dose can be adjusted every 2-3 days, with a usual maintenance dose of 15-30 mg daily divided into two or three doses. The maximum recommended daily dose is 60 mg, though geriatric patients rarely require doses this high. Some key points to consider when prescribing BuSpar to geriatric males include:
- Elderly patients often need lower doses due to age-related changes in drug metabolism, decreased renal and hepatic function, and increased sensitivity to medication effects, as noted in a study from 3.
- Side effects to monitor include dizziness, headache, nervousness, and lightheadedness, which may be more pronounced in older adults.
- BuSpar takes 2-4 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect, so patience is important.
- It should be taken consistently, preferably at the same times each day, and can be taken with or without food, though consistent administration relative to meals is recommended.
- Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided; the dose should be tapered gradually when stopping treatment. It's also worth noting that buspirone has been found to be effective in treating behavioral disturbances in dementia, with 68.6% of patients responding to treatment, as reported in a study from 2. However, the primary concern is the safe and effective use of BuSpar in geriatric males, and the recommended dose and administration guidelines should be followed to minimize the risk of adverse effects.