Buspar (buspirone)
Buspar is used to treat anxiety and for the short term treatment of anxiety disorder. It has a direct effect on the neurotransmitters in the brain making it effective in treating mood disorders associated with addiction.
What is Buspar?
Buspirone is a medication for anxiety (anxiolytic) that works by affecting certain natural chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters.
Buspar(buspirone) Uses
Buspar is prescribed for the management of anxiety disorders and short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety. It is in the class of anxiolytic drugs because of the influence it has on the neurotransmitters, especially serotonin. It is different than benzodiazepines because it does not depress the central nervous system or cause sedation. Buspar is also effective in patients with concurrent symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is commonly prescribed in drug rehab facilities to treat anxiety caused by drug withdrawal or by an underlying anxiety disorder.
You should tell your prescribing physician if you suffer from kidney problems, liver problems, Parkinson’s disease, or Bipolar disorder with manic-depressive episodes. Off-label uses of Buspar include treatment of aggression in those who are mentally challenged or suffering from premenstrual syndrome. An accurate diagnosis of anxiety disorders is crucial for successful drug detox and drug addiction treatment.
Buspar Dosage
The initial daily dosage for Buspar is 15 mg. Buspar dosage may be increased by 5 mg intervals every two to three days. Maximum dosage for Buspar does not exceed 60 mg daily. If you have questions about Buspar or the appropriate dosage, contact your healthcare provider.
Buspar Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Nervousness
- Lightheadedness
- Excitement
- Constipation
Buspar treats anxiety by decreasing symptoms of jitteriness and irritability. It may also control symptoms such as sleeplessness, sweating, and pounding or rapid heartbeat. However, it is important to pay attention to symptoms while taking Buspar as they may get worse before getting better.
Buspar is not known to be addictive or to create drug-seeking behavior and it is not used to help with benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms. It is used only to help with anxiety produced by benzodiazepine abuse.
Buspar Withdrawal Symptoms
Use of this drug should never be abruptly stopped and, while it is not known to cause addiction, it will create withdrawal symptoms when the dosage is not gradually reduced.
Buspar Withdrawal Symptoms can include:
- Headache
- Neck stiffness
- Muscle spasms
- Difficulty functioning
Related Content:
- Addiction Treatment and Anxiety Disorder
Combining substance abuse with anxiety disorders worsens the problem. Learn more - Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
Finding a truly integrated substance abuse treatment program that handles dual diagnosis can be difficult. Learn what a good program provides. - Medication Treatment for Dual Diagnosis Disorders