Buspirone
Mental healthAlso known as Buspar
Buspirone treats ongoing anxiety by gently adjusting serotonin signaling in the brain. It's very different from medicines like Xanax or Ativan: it isn't habit-forming, it won't knock you out, and it doesn't work on the spot. Instead, it builds up its effect over two to four weeks of daily use. So take it every day as prescribed, not just when you feel anxious — that's the most common misunderstanding about this medicine.
How to take it
When
Usually twice a day, at the same times each day. It works with steady daily use, not as needed.
Food
Be consistent: always with food, or always without. Switching back and forth changes how much your body absorbs.
Avoid
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice in large amounts — they raise buspirone levels. Also avoid MAOI antidepressants and go easy on alcohol.
Getting started
Give it two to four weeks before judging whether it's working. Some dizziness or lightheadedness early on is common and usually fades.
Missed a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose — then just skip the missed one. Never take a double dose.
Common side effects
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially at first
- Nausea
- Headache
- Feeling nervous or a little wired early on
- Trouble sleeping
Call a doctor if
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing — this is an emergency, call for help immediately
- Fever with agitation, racing heart, heavy sweating, or muscle twitching — possible serotonin syndrome, especially if you take other serotonin medicines; get help now
- Chest pain or a pounding, irregular heartbeat — get medical help now
- Uncontrollable shaking or stiff, jerking movements — call your doctor right away