Overview on Buspirone
Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication [2]. Buspirone is prescribed to treat specific anxiety disorders or to alleviate anxiety symptoms [1]. Although it was initially developed as an antipsychotic, it proved ineffective for treating psychosis but showed valuable anti-anxiety properties [2]. Recently, buspirone has gained popularity mainly because it has fewer side effects compared to other anxiety treatments [2]. It is consumed orally and takes 2-6 weeks to be fully effective. Buspirone primarily works by partially activating serotonin 5HT1a receptors, with additional weak actions on serotonin 5HT2 and dopamine D2 receptors, but has no effect on benzodiazepine GABA receptors [2]. Its exact mechanism for reducing anxiety symptoms is unclear but may involve changes in serotonin activity within brain regions associated with anxiety, like the amygdala [2].
Uses of Buspirone
Treatment of anxiety disorders
Sexual disfunction: Hypoactive sexual desire disorder and antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction
Side effects of Buspirone
Chest pain [1]
Confusion [1]
Fast or pounding heartbeat [1]
Fever [1]
Incoordination [1]
Depression [1]
Muscle weakness [1]
Numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hands or feet [1]
Skin rash [1]
Sore throat [1]
Stiffness of the arms and legs [1]
Uncontrolled movements of the body [1]
Dizziness [2]
Abnormal dreams [2]
Drowsiness [2]
Blurred vision [2]
Tinnitus [2]
Nasal congestion [2]
Diarrhea [2]
Nausea [2]
Musculoskeletal pain [2]
Tremor [2]
Weakness [2]
Symptoms of overdose
Dizziness [1]
Drowsiness [1]
Loss of consciousness [1]
Nausea [1]
Stomach upset [1]
Restlessness [1]
Nervousness [1]
Unusual excitement [1]
Blurred vision [1]
Sweating [1]
Decreased concentration [1]
Diarrhea [1]
Drowsiness [1]
Dryness of the mouth [1]
Muscle pain, spasms, cramps, or stiffness [1]
Ringing in the ears [1]
Trouble with sleeping, nightmares, or vivid dreams [1]
Weakness [1]
References
Buspirone (oral route). (2024, October 1). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/buspirone-oral-route/description/drg-20062457
Wilson, T. K., & Tripp, J. (2023, January 17). Buspirone. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531477/
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