Buspirone is a prescription medication that is used to treat anxiety and related symptoms such as tension, irritability, fear, dizziness and an increased heart rate. It works by balancing neurotransmitters or chemical messengers in the brain, which can trigger anxiety symptoms. This oral drug is not related to other common drugs for anxiety such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates. Buspirone is sold under the brand name BuSpar and is prescribed for persistent anxiety symptoms that have occurred continuously for at least one month. There are no indications that vitamins and minerals adversely interact with buspirone; consult your doctor about how to take this medication.
Step 1
See your primary care doctor or psychiatrist to discuss your anxiety symptoms. Your doctor will determine if buspirone medication treatment is right for you. BuSpar is sold in tablets that are taken orally in dosages of 5, 10, 15 or 30 mg.
Step 2
Fill your prescription of buspirone. Carefully read the pharmaceutical label on the medication and ensure that you are not allergic to this drug or anything it contains. Take the recommended initial total daily dosage of 15 mg. This is commonly taken in two to three divided doses per day. Your doctor may gradually increase your daily dose as needed.
Step 3
Take buspirone exactly as directed. This medication can be taken with or without food. However, larger doses may be needed if it is taken with food. Follow the prescription instructions and ask your doctor or pharmacist to clarify any questions or concerns you have. Take buspirone at the same times each day.
Step 4
Take your daily vitamin and mineral supplements as instructed on the labels. These can be taken separately or at the same time that you take buspirone. In some cases, buspirone and other medications can deplete vitamins and minerals, and taking these nutrients can help to replenish the body.
Tips and Warnings
- Buspirone is prescribed to manage anxiety disorders and is not recommended for anxiety caused by daily stress or normal life circumstances. Generally, persistent anxiety disorders cause symptoms that include motor tension such as jitteriness and trembling, excessive sweating and lightheadedness, fear and anticipation of misfortune, insomnia, irritabilty, difficulty concentrating, and impatience.
- Buspirone should not be taken if you have kidney disease, liver disease or if you are allergic to this medication. This medication can also impair thinking and reaction time in some patients. This can be worsened by drinking alcohol. Do not drink alcohol while taking buspirone. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with this medication and can lead to potentially serious side effects. Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements your are taking and carefully read the labels of buspirone.
Things You'll Need
- Buspirone prescription medication
Member Comments