Buspirone is administered to reduce the severity of the states of anxiety, acting as a partial agonist of a particular type of receptors of serotonin and as an antagonist of dopamine, as well as a partial agonist of α1 receptors (involved in the mechanisms that are in the onset of anxiety).
What is Buspirone?
Buspirone is a medical tranquilizer that belongs to the class of azaspirodecanediones. It is administered to reduce the severity of anxiety states.
How should Buspirone be taken?
Buspirone is taken orally according to the instructions prescribed by the doctor. Since it requires one or two weeks before the drug can fully develop its effectiveness, it is important not to stop treatment before the end of this period, even if no improvement is seen.
Side effects associated with Buspirone
Generally, the treatment based on Buspirone is well tolerated. Among the recognized adverse effects are included:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Headache
- Agitation
- Insomnia or sleepiness
- Tingling in the limbs
Buspirone is devoid of anticonvulsant and muscle relaxant properties, has little sedative effect and unlike other anti-anxiety medications it is not conducive to sleep. Unlike what happens in patients treated with other types of anti-anxiety medications, patients treated with Buspirone show no evidence of sedation or reduction of ability to perform activities that require attention.
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Buspirone
Some adverse effects may be potentiated by taking alcohol, therefore, avoid the consumption of these beverages during treatment with Buspirone. It is also important to avoid the concomitant use of other drugs with sedative effects (e.g. antihistamines, drugs for insomnia).
Particular attention should be paid to the administration of the drug in patients with renal and hepatic dysfunction and allergy sufferers. Women should consult with their physician if they are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant or if they are breastfeeding.
