Buspirone Hydrochloride

Generic Name: buspirone hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Buspirone Hydrochloride

Buspirone hydrochloride is a non-sedating anxiolytic agent unrelated chemically or pharmacologically to benzodiazepines or barbiturates. It is indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or short-term relief of anxiety symptoms.

Overview

Buspirone hydrochloride is a non-sedating anxiolytic agent unrelated chemically or pharmacologically to benzodiazepines or barbiturates. It is indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or short-term relief of anxiety symptoms.

Uses

Indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. Demonstrates efficacy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder including patients with coexisting depressive symptoms.

Dosage

Initial dosing is 15 mg daily (7.5 mg twice daily) with incremental increases of 5 mg daily at 2-3 day intervals. Maximum daily dose should not exceed 60 mg. Consistent timing with or without food is necessary.

Side Effects

Common side effects include dizziness (12%), drowsiness (10%), nausea (8%), headache (6%), nervousness (5%), and lightheadedness (3%). Rare reports include serotonin syndrome and extrapyramidal symptoms.

Interactions

Significant interactions with CYP3A4 inhibitors: nefazodone causes up to 50-fold AUC increases; itraconazole causes 19-fold increases. Grapefruit juice increases concentrations 9.2-fold. Rifampin reduces buspirone levels by 89.6%.

Warnings

Risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with MAOIs or serotonergic drugs. MAOI use within 14 days is contraindicated. Contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to buspirone hydrochloride.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category B. No fertility impairment or fetal damage observed in animal studies. Adequate human studies are lacking; use only when clearly necessary.

Storage

Store at 20-25 degrees C in tight, light-resistant containers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Buspirone Hydrochloride used for?

Indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. Demonstrates efficacy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder including patients with coexisting depressive symptoms.

What are the side effects of Buspirone Hydrochloride?

Common side effects include dizziness (12%), drowsiness (10%), nausea (8%), headache (6%), nervousness (5%), and lightheadedness (3%). Rare reports include serotonin syndrome and extrapyramidal symptoms.

Can I take Buspirone Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

Pregnancy Category B. No fertility impairment or fetal damage observed in animal studies. Adequate human studies are lacking; use only when clearly necessary.

What are the important warnings for Buspirone Hydrochloride?

Risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with MAOIs or serotonergic drugs. MAOI use within 14 days is contraindicated. Contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to buspirone hydrochloride.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.