Indications
Buspar, also known by its generic name buspirone, is a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. It works by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to reduce anxiety and tension. Buspirone belongs to a class of medications known as anxiolytics, and it is available in tablet form for oral administration.
Buspirone does not produce the same effects as benzodiazepines and other sedative medications that are often prescribed for anxiety disorders, which means it can be taken without fear of addiction or dependence. It is a medication used to treat symptoms of anxiety and depression, providing relief from anxious thoughts and behavioral disturbances.
Buspirone is not known exactly how buspirone works to relieve the symptoms of anxiety. Its calming effects can help reduce feelings of restlessness, tension, irritability and difficulty concentrating that are associated with anxiety.
Uses and Dosage
Buspirone may come in a tablet that can be split to get the correct dose for you. It usually needed to be taken 2 or 3 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Buspirone comes in varying dosages, ranging from 5 mg to 30 mg per tablet. You may take this medication with or without food, but it is important to choose one way and always take it the same way so that the amount of drug absorbed will always be the same.
Dosage for Buspirone is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. However, the recommended initial dose is 15 mg daily (7.5 mg two times a day). To achieve an optimal therapeutic response, at intervals of 2 to 3 days the dosage may be increased 5 mg per day, as needed. The maximum daily dosage should not exceed 60 mg per day. In clinical trials allowing dose titration, divided doses of 20 mg to 30 mg per day were commonly employed.
The dosage of buspirone is increased when given with food as compared to the fasted state. Consequently, patients should take buspirone in a consistent way with regard to the timing of dosing; either always with or always without food. It may take up to a month or more to get the full effect of this medication.
Side Effects
Some common side effects of Buspirone
- Chest pain and Muscle weakness
- Confusion and Mental depression
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Fever
- Incoordination
- Numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hands or feet
- Unusual/uncontrolled shaking (especially of the face, mouth, tongue, arms, or legs)
- Blurred vision, tiredness, and trouble sleeping
- Rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
Serious Side Effect
- Easy bleeding/bruising, shortness of breath, chest pain, fast/irregular heartbeat
Form and Strength
Buspar is a discontinued medicatio but its generic alternative Buspirone is available only in the form of tablet:
Buspirone Tablet
- 5 mg
- 7.5 mg
- 10 mg
- 15 mg
- 30 mg
Cautions
- Do not take this medication for longer than 4 weeks. . Long-term use of Buspirone can cause serious side effects and health risks, so it is important to understand the potential risks before beginning treatment.
- Before taking Buspar, tell your doctor if you have or have had liver disease or kidney disease.
- Buspirone should be should be kept in a closed container at room temperature away from any sources of heat, moisture, or direct light.
- It is important to ensure that this medication is kept out of the reach of children less than 18 years old and Pets and only be taken as directed by a healthcare provider. Taking this medication without consulting a doctor can result in serious side effects and even death for children.
- Buspar is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby, however tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
- Eating or drinking grapefruit can have serious consequences when taking buspirone, making it important to understand the risks associated with consuming these substances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What should I avoid while taking buspirone?
You may take this medicine with or without food, but take it the same way each time. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you are taking this medicine.
What is the best time of day to take buspirone?
Buspirone is usually given two to three times a day. Your doctor will tell you how often to give it. Twice each day: this should be once in the morning and once in the evening. Ideally, these times are 10–12 hours apart, for example sometime between 7 and 8 am, and between 7 and 8 pm.
What chemicals affect buspirone?
Buspirone belongs in the azapirone medicine class, which includes other anti-anxiety (anxiolytics) and antipsychotic drugs. It affects the serotonin and dopamine neurotransmitters in the brain, meaning it increases the action of serotonin receptors, which helps lessen anxiety.
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