Buspar is the American brand name of the medication buspirone. Buspirone is used to treat anxiety disorders and is available only by prescription. According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers are not quite sure how Buspar relieves severe anxiety, but they suspect that the medication decreases the amount of serotonin that is found in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical that influences mood. Buspar is a white tablet that is available in several different strengths.
Use
Buspar is safe for many different populations to use. Studies reported by Bristol Myers Squibb, the manufacturer of the medication, report that the drug is categorizes as a "B" for pregnant women. This label means that the drug did not show any harm to a developing fetus and can be used if the benefits outweigh the risks. It is not known if Buspar passes into breastmilk and is thus not recommended for nursing mothers. Children over the age of 6 may be prescribed Buspar if needed, and the drug is also safe and effective for geriatric populations. People who have liver or kidney disease should not use Buspar to treat anxiety.
Dosage
Specific dosages of Buspar are indicated by each individual's physician and may be increased or decreased as the need arises. The Mayo Clinic explains that a standard beginning dose of Buspar for adults is usually 7 1/2 mg, taken twice daily. The drug is available in tablets containing 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg and 30mg of active ingredients and can be cut in half to arrive at the appropriate dosage if needed. The medication can be taken with or without food, but the routine should remain consistent; if a person chooses to take Buspar with food, he should always eat something when each dosage. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact negatively with Buspar and should be avoided. Bristol Myers Squibb suggests in the patient literature for the medication that people who use the medication see how the dosage affects them before driving to avoid a potentially hazardous situation.
Side Effects
Buspar affects everyone differently and may produce side effects in some people. According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common side effect associated with Buspar is a heightened feeling of restlessness or nervousness. Drowsiness and stomach upset may also occur while taking the medication but may be tolerated without seeking medical attention. Insomnia may also occur. In rare cases, Buspar can produce serious side effects that should require immediate medical attention, including muscle weakness, chest pain, mental confusion, fever and numbness, pain or tingling in the extremities. Patients who take Buspar should also head to an emergency medical facility if they experience any signs of an allergic reaction, including breathing difficulties, hives or swelling around the facial area.
Drug Interactions
Buspar should not be used if a person is already taking certain medications, as the two drugs will not function properly or may cause unwanted side effects. MAO inhibitor drugs, including isocarboxazid, phenelzine, selegiline and tranylcypromine, may lead to high blood pressure readings if taken at the same time as Buspar. Cold and allergy medicines, sleeping pills and pain relievers may all work too well and produce unsafe levels of drowsiness if a patient takes these over-the-counter remedies along with Buspar. Making sure the prescribing doctor is aware of all medications and supplements a person is taking before prescribing Buspar to avoid potentially dangerous interactions.
Considerations
Sometimes Buspar is prescribed while a person is currently taking another anti-anxiety drug. It's important to take both drugs as directed, especially if the patient is being weaned off the other anxiety medication to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Buspar is not a controlled substance and will not eliminate withdrawal symptoms caused by other medications. Always continue taking Buspar as directed by a doctor to avoid the possibility of overdose or dependency.
