Buspirone (Buspar) Mnemonic

Key Points

• Buspirone (Buspar) is an anti-anxiety medication used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and is considered a second-line treatment after SSRIs and SNRIs.
• It has a delayed onset of action (about 2 weeks), making it ineffective for treating acute panic attacks.
• Unlike benzodiazepines, buspirone does not cause sedation or dependence, making it a safer option for long-term anxiety treatment.

Mechanism of Action

• Buspirone primarily targets serotonin and dopamine receptors, acting as a partial agonist at serotonin (5-HT1A) receptors and a weak antagonist at dopamine (D2) receptors.
• Unlike benzodiazepines, it does not affect GABA receptors, meaning it has less sedative effect and a lower risk of dependence.
• Patients should take buspirone consistently, even if they don't notice immediate effects. Another anxiolytic may be prescribed temporarily until buspirone takes effect.

Indications

• Primarily used to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
• Considered a second-line pharmacologic treatment for GAD after SSRIs or SNRIs.
• Acts as a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic, providing relief from chronic anxiety without the sedative effects or dependency risks associated with benzodiazepines.
• Also used to treat anxiety-related depression, often accompanying chronic anxiety.

Side Effects

• Does not cause tolerance or dependence like benzodiazepines.
• Common side effects include dizziness, headache, and mild GI distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). Taking with food can reduce GI upset.
• Compared to benzodiazepines, buspirone has fewer sedative and hypnotic effects, lowering the risk of sedation or sleep issues.
• Grapefruit juice may increase buspirone's levels in the blood, raising the risk of side effects.
• Concurrent use with MAOIs can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.