Azapirone

Azapirone is a class of drugs used in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depression. They are commonly known as anxiolytics and have a different mechanism of action compared to other anti-anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Azapirones work by modulating the serotonin system in the brain. They are partial agonists at the 5-HT1A receptor, which means they stimulate the receptor to a lesser extent than a full agonist. This results in a balance between stimulation and inhibition of the serotonin system, which can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Azapirones are primarily used to treat generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. They may also be used off-label for other conditions such as social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of azapirones include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. In rare cases, they can cause serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and high body temperature.

Examples[edit | edit source]

Some examples of azapirones include buspirone, gepirone, and ipsapirone. Buspirone is the most commonly prescribed azapirone and is available under the brand name Buspar.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Azapirone Resources
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