last update: November 14, 2025
INDICATIONS
Buspar is used for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms.Buspar is an antianxiety agent. It reacts with specific chemical receptors in the brain.
INSTRUCTIONS
Use Buspar as directed by your doctor.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Buspar.
STORAGE
Store Buspar at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Avoid storing at temperatures above 86 degrees F (30 degrees C). Keep Buspar out of the reach of children and away from pets.
MORE INFO:
Active Ingredient: Buspirone HCl.
Do NOT use Buspar if:
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
Some medical conditions may interact with Buspar. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
Some medicines may interact with Buspar. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Buspar may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.
Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:
Blurred vision; dizziness; drowsiness; excitability; headache; lightheadedness; nausea.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness); abnormal muscle movements; chest pain; fainting; fever; irregular heartbeat; loss of coordination; memory problems; new or worsening mental, mood, or personality changes (eg, anger, hostility, confusion, depression); seizures; suicidal thoughts or actions; unusual restlessness; vision changes.
This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider.
Buspar is the brand name for buspirone, a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic used primarily for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Unlike benzodiazepines, buspirone does not act on GABA receptors and has minimal sedative, muscle relaxant, or anticonvulsant properties. It is thought to work by partially stimulating serotonin 5-HT1A receptors and modulating dopamine, which helps reduce excessive worry and tension without the risks of dependence or withdrawal seen with benzodiazepines.
Because its mechanism relies on receptor adaptation, Buspar does not provide immediate anxiety relief. Most people begin noticing benefit after 2 to 4 weeks of consistent daily use, with continued improvement up to 6 to 8 weeks. For this reason, Buspar is not used as a “take as needed” rescue for panic attacks; it is a maintenance medication for chronic anxiety symptoms.
The FDA-approved indication for buspirone is the management of anxiety disorders or short-term relief of anxiety symptoms, particularly GAD. Clinically, Buspar is often chosen when patients want to avoid sedation, cognitive slowing, or dependence potential associated with benzodiazepines. It can also be a reasonable option if prior trials of SSRIs or SNRIs caused intolerable side effects or sexual dysfunction.
Buspirone’s non-sedating profile and lack of abuse potential are major advantages for long-term anxiety care. It does not cause physical dependence or significant withdrawal upon discontinuation when tapered appropriately. In contrast, benzodiazepines (like alprazolam, lorazepam, and clonazepam) can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal and may impair memory and coordination.
That said, Buspar requires consistent daily dosing and patience. It does not stop acute anxiety spikes immediately. Some patients benefit from combining Buspar with psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which addresses thought patterns and coping strategies while Buspar reduces baseline worry and physiological tension.
Dosing is individualized. A common starting point is 7.5 mg twice daily or 5 mg three times daily, then gradually titrated by 5 mg every 2 to 3 days based on response and tolerability. Many adults respond to 20–30 mg per day divided into two or three doses. The maximum recommended total daily dose is 60 mg. Your prescriber will tailor the dose to your symptoms, side effects, and concurrent medications.
During the first week or two, you may notice mild side effects like dizziness or nausea before benefits emerge. Most people begin feeling calmer and less preoccupied by worry after 2 to 4 weeks, with continued improvement by weeks 6 to 8. The goal is steady symptom reduction—less rumination, fewer somatic symptoms (muscle tension, GI upset), and improved sleep continuity without morning grogginess.
If you do not notice any change by week 4, speak with your clinician about dose adjustments, checking for interactions, or complementary strategies like psychotherapy. Never stop abruptly without guidance; although buspirone is not associated with significant physical dependence, a brief taper may still be recommended.
Buspirone is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are usually mild and transient, often improving as your body adapts.
Less common effects can include increased irritability, tremor, or a feeling of inner restlessness (akathisia). Rarely, movement-related symptoms such as dystonia or myoclonus have been reported. If these occur, seek medical advice; dose adjustments or alternative treatments may be needed.
Serious adverse events are uncommon but require urgent care:
Report persistent or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider. They may adjust the dose, change timing relative to meals, or modify your regimen to improve tolerability.
Buspirone is metabolized by liver enzyme CYP3A4, so medicines and foods that affect this pathway can change buspirone levels. Always share a complete list of prescriptions, over-the-counter products, and supplements with your clinician and pharmacist.
Do not use buspirone if you have a known hypersensitivity to buspirone or any component of the formulation, if you are taking an MAOI or have used one in the last 14 days, or if you have severe hepatic or renal impairment. People with moderate liver or kidney disease need individualized assessment and cautious dosing if buspirone is used.
Be sure to disclose a history of bipolar disorder, psychosis, epilepsy, substance use disorder, or previous suicide attempts, as these conditions may influence treatment choice, monitoring, or the need for collaborative psychiatric care.
Comparing anxiety treatments helps set expectations and choose the right tool for the right job.
Your clinician may combine treatments—for example, initiating an SSRI and using short-term benzodiazepines while adding Buspar to reduce residual worry—then simplify the regimen as symptoms improve.
Grapefruit products can significantly increase buspirone levels; avoid them unless your prescriber specifically approves and monitors for side effects. Until you know how Buspar affects you, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. Routine laboratory monitoring is not universally required for all patients, but your clinician may check liver and kidney function in certain situations or if symptoms suggest an issue. Keep all scheduled visits to review benefits and tolerability.
Store buspirone tablets at controlled room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F), with permissible excursions to 15–30°C (59–86°F). Protect from moisture, heat, and light by keeping tablets in the original, tightly closed container. Do not store in bathrooms. Keep out of reach of children and pets, and dispose of unused medication through take-back programs when available.
Buspar contains buspirone hydrochloride as the active ingredient. Generic buspirone is available in multiple strengths, commonly 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg tablets, allowing flexible dosing. Generics are therapeutically equivalent to brand-name Buspar.
Timely communication helps adjust your plan and maintain progress toward symptom control.
Buspirone is widely available as a low-cost generic. Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, and quantity, and may change over time. Discount programs, insurance formularies, and 90-day supplies can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Always ensure medicines are sourced from licensed pharmacies to guarantee quality and proper storage conditions.
Be cautious of online sources that promise unusually low prices or advertise prescription medicines as “over the counter.” In the United States, buspirone is a prescription medication. Legitimate telehealth services can provide evaluation by licensed clinicians, who may prescribe and dispense medication when appropriate. Avoid sites that do not require any medical information, lack contact details, or bypass pharmacist counseling.
This list is not exhaustive. Always consult a pharmacist or prescriber when starting or stopping any medication or supplement.
As with any psychiatric medication, personalization matters. Dose adjustments, combination strategies, and supportive therapies produce the best outcomes.
In the United States, buspirone (Buspar) is a prescription medication regulated by federal and state law. It is not available over the counter. A valid clinical evaluation by a licensed prescriber is required before dispensing. This evaluation can occur in person or through a legitimate telehealth platform that collects your medical history, reviews your medications, assesses symptoms, and documents a treatment plan. Pharmacies must be licensed in the states where they ship and must offer pharmacist counseling.
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Petersburg offers a legal and structured solution for acquiring Buspar without a formal paper prescription from your personal clinician. Through a compliant process, you complete a medical questionnaire and, where appropriate, undergo a telehealth review by a licensed provider. If Buspar is clinically suitable, the prescription is issued within the system and filled by a licensed pharmacy—removing the need for you to upload a preexisting prescription while still meeting all regulatory requirements. Identity verification, age restrictions, and state-by-state dispensing rules apply, and not all patients will qualify. This approach ensures safe access, documentation, and pharmacist counseling while adhering to U.S. laws.
Wherever you obtain Buspar, prioritize safety: use licensed services, expect a real clinical review, verify pharmacy credentials, and maintain follow-up with a clinician to monitor benefits, side effects, and interactions.
Buspar (buspirone) is a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic used primarily to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It reduces excessive worry and tension without causing significant sedation, euphoria, or dependence.
Buspirone is a serotonin 5-HT1A partial agonist with some dopamine (D2) activity. It modulates serotonin signaling to reduce anxiety and does not act on GABA receptors, so it lacks the muscle-relaxant, anticonvulsant, and strong sedative effects typical of benzodiazepines.
Buspirone is not a fast-acting medication; it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for noticeable improvement, with full benefit sometimes taking 6 to 8 weeks. It is intended for regular, scheduled use rather than as-needed relief.
Buspirone has a very low risk of dependence, tolerance, or misuse compared with benzodiazepines. Most people can discontinue it without significant withdrawal symptoms, though a short taper is often recommended.
Buspirone is not effective for acute panic symptoms because it does not work immediately. It is best used as a daily maintenance treatment for ongoing anxiety.
Common side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, lightheadedness, restlessness, and occasional trouble sleeping. These often improve over time; taking doses consistently with or without food can help reduce nausea.
Serious risks are uncommon, but buspirone should not be used with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI due to risk of hypertensive reactions. Combining with other serotonergic drugs can rarely contribute to serotonin syndrome; seek urgent care for symptoms like agitation, fever, and muscle rigidity.
Avoid buspirone if you have a known hypersensitivity to it, or if you are taking MAO inhibitors, linezolid, or IV methylene blue. Use caution and medical guidance if you have significant liver or kidney impairment.
Buspirone is generally non-sedating and not associated with weight gain. Some people may feel mild dizziness or fatigue early on, but it typically does not impair cognition or reaction time once stabilized.
Buspirone is less likely than SSRIs and SNRIs to cause sexual dysfunction and is sometimes used to help offset SSRI-related sexual side effects. Individual responses vary, but rates of sexual adverse effects are low.
Buspirone is taken on a regular schedule, usually two or three times daily. Consistency matters: take it the same way each time (always with food or always without) to keep absorption steady.
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double up; resume your regular schedule.
Yes. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy often enhance outcomes when used alongside buspirone for GAD.
Buspirone is often preferred in older adults because it causes less sedation, confusion, and fall risk than benzodiazepines. Dose adjustments may be needed for kidney or liver issues.
Antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs affect multiple serotonin and norepinephrine pathways and treat both anxiety and depression. Buspirone is more targeted for anxiety (especially GAD), generally has fewer sexual and weight-related side effects, and is non-sedating, but it may be less effective for comorbid depression.
Alcohol can increase dizziness and impair coordination when combined with buspirone, even though Buspar is not strongly sedating. It is best to avoid or minimize alcohol and see how you respond before considering any intake.
Data are limited but generally reassuring, with no clear link to major birth defects. The decision to use buspirone in pregnancy should weigh untreated anxiety risks against limited safety data; discuss with your obstetrician or psychiatrist.
Small amounts may pass into breast milk, and data are limited. Many clinicians consider buspirone compatible with breastfeeding when benefits outweigh potential risks; monitor the infant for unusual sleepiness or feeding issues and consult your pediatrician.
Most patients can continue buspirone through the perioperative period since it is non-sedating and does not interact significantly with anesthetics. Always inform your surgical team and follow their instructions.
Until you know how buspirone affects you, use caution with driving or tasks requiring alertness. Dizziness and lightheadedness are most common during the first days to weeks.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice with buspirone. Grapefruit inhibits CYP3A4 and can increase buspirone levels, raising the risk of side effects like dizziness.
Buspirone is often combined with SSRIs/SNRIs for GAD or as augmentation, and the combination is generally well tolerated. Rarely, additive serotonergic effects can contribute to serotonin syndrome; your clinician will monitor for symptoms.
Buspirone is not known for significant withdrawal, but abrupt discontinuation can allow anxiety symptoms to return. A short taper is commonly recommended to minimize rebound anxiety.
Yes. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (for example, ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, clarithromycin, diltiazem, verapamil) can increase buspirone levels; inducers like rifampin can lower them. Avoid MAOIs and be cautious with other serotonergic agents.
Xanax works quickly for acute anxiety and panic but carries high risks of sedation, dependence, and withdrawal. Buspirone is slower to work but is non-sedating, non-addictive, and better suited for long-term management of GAD.
Ativan provides rapid relief but can impair memory and coordination and is habit-forming. Buspirone lacks those risks, has a delayed onset, and is preferred for chronic anxiety when immediate sedation is not required.
Klonopin is effective but associated with tolerance, dependence, and daytime sedation over time. Buspirone is safer for long-term use, with minimal abuse potential and fewer cognitive effects.
Valium’s long half-life helps with acute muscle tension and anxiety but increases sedation and accumulation risks, especially in older adults. Buspirone avoids these issues and is recommended for chronic GAD without the drawbacks of benzodiazepines.
Sertraline (an SSRI) treats both anxiety and depression and has robust evidence for GAD; it can cause GI upset and sexual dysfunction. Buspirone is less likely to cause sexual side effects and can be used alone for GAD or to augment SSRIs when needed.
Escitalopram is often first-line for GAD due to strong efficacy and once-daily dosing, but it may cause sexual dysfunction and weight changes. Buspirone offers a non-sedating alternative with fewer sexual side effects, though onset is slower and efficacy may be milder in some patients.
Venlafaxine (an SNRI) is effective for GAD and comorbid depression but can raise blood pressure and cause discontinuation symptoms. Buspirone avoids these issues but may be less potent in severe anxiety; some patients benefit from combining the two under medical supervision.
Duloxetine helps anxiety and chronic pain but may cause nausea, sweating, and elevated blood pressure. Buspirone is gentler on blood pressure and sexual function but may not treat pain or depression.
Hydroxyzine is a sedating antihistamine useful for short-term, as-needed relief of anxiety or insomnia. Buspirone is better for daily, ongoing anxiety management without sedation or anticholinergic side effects.
Propranolol targets physical symptoms like tremor and rapid heartbeat during performance situations and works quickly as needed. Buspirone is not effective as needed; it treats baseline worry over time rather than situational performance anxiety.
Pregabalin can relieve anxiety rapidly but often causes dizziness, weight gain, and edema and may require controlled-substance monitoring in some regions. Buspirone has fewer metabolic side effects and no abuse potential, though it takes longer to work.
Gabapentin is sometimes used off-label for anxiety but has variable evidence and can cause sedation and dizziness. Buspirone has more targeted evidence for GAD and a lower risk of sedation and misuse.
Quetiapine can reduce anxiety but carries risks of weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and sedation; it is generally reserved for specific cases or comorbid conditions. Buspirone is safer for routine GAD treatment when antipsychotic effects are not needed.
Benzodiazepines work fast but bring dependence, tolerance, and cognitive side effects. Buspirone is slower but better suited for long-term anxiety management with a superior safety and dependency profile.