What Meds

Psychiatric Medications

Buspirone Hydrochloride
Brand Names: BuSpar, Ansiced

Buspirone is an Anxiolytic — a type of medication used to reduce anxiety, agitation or tension. Unlike most anxiolytic drugs, buspirone does not impair motor function with muscle relaxants. It is chemically different from other medicines used to treat anxiety, and it does not greatly affect a patient’s mental alertness or act as a sleep agent. It does not cause physical dependence. The mechanism of action of Buspirone is not clearly understood but it is thought to affect more than one chemical in the brain, including the serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

Why is this drug prescribed?
Buspirone is FDA-approved for the treatment of anxiety in adults. These anxiety disorders may include the following symptoms:

How much of this drug is typically used?
Tablets: 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 30 mg

Warnings and Precautions
Buspirone should be used cautiously in patients with kidney problems because the drug is eliminated mainly through the kidneys. Caution should also be used when giving Buspirone to patients with hepatic disease because the drug is metabolized by the liver. In patients with these problems, the dosage may need to be lowered.

Although Buspirone does not cause drowsiness in most people, a patient should not operate machinery or drive until the effects of Buspirone on that patient are known and do not present a danger to the patient or others.

For Pregnant or Nursing Mothers Buspirone has not been studied in pregnant women. However, Buspirone has not been shown to cause birth defects or other problems in animal studies. It is not known whether Buspirone passes into the breast milk of humans.

Buspirone should Not be used for people who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to this drug.

Adverse Reactions
Buspirone may cause the following reactions:


Interactions with Drugs and Other Substances

Research Studies and Use in Child Psychiatry
Limited information is available regarding using Buspirone in the treatment of children. One study suggested an increase in aggression and agitation in children with anxiety and moderately aggressive behavior. Two studies suggested no effect on children with generalized anxiety disorder.


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