Buspar

Buspar (Buspirone)

Buspar, also known by its generic name buspirone, is a medication primarily used to treat anxiety disorders. It is classified as an anxiolytic, which means it helps to reduce anxiety. Unlike other common anxiolytics such as benzodiazepines, buspirone does not have sedative effects and is not associated with the risk of dependence.

Pharmacology

Buspirone is a member of the azapirone class of compounds and acts as a partial agonist at the 5-HT_1A receptor. This action is believed to contribute to its anxiolytic effects. Buspirone also has a weak affinity for dopamine receptors, particularly the D2 receptor, which may play a role in its mechanism of action.

Indications

Buspar is primarily indicated for the management of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It may also be used off-label for other conditions such as depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), although its efficacy in these conditions is less well established.

Dosage and Administration

Buspirone is typically administered orally, with an initial dose of 5 mg taken two to three times daily. The dose may be increased gradually based on the patient's response and tolerance, with a usual maintenance dose ranging from 15 to 30 mg per day, divided into multiple doses.

Side Effects

Common side effects of buspirone include dizziness, headache, nausea, and nervousness. Unlike benzodiazepines, buspirone does not cause significant sedation or cognitive impairment. It also has a lower risk of abuse and dependence.

Contraindications and Precautions

Buspirone is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug. Caution is advised when prescribing buspirone to patients with liver disease or kidney disease, as these conditions may affect the drug's metabolism and excretion.

Drug Interactions

Buspirone may interact with other medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which can lead to increased blood pressure. It is also metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, particularly CYP3A4, so inhibitors or inducers of this enzyme can affect buspirone levels.

History

Buspirone was first synthesized in the 1960s and was approved for medical use in the United States in 1986. It was developed as a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic to provide an alternative treatment for anxiety without the sedative and dependency risks associated with benzodiazepines.

See Also

• Anxiety disorder
• Benzodiazepine
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)

External Links

• Drugs.com: Buspar
• Mayo Clinic: Buspirone