Buspirone: Uses and Information
Buspirone affects serotonin in the brain to help reduce anxiety and tension. It's used for long-term treatment of anxiety, worry, and restlessness without panic attacks. This includes anxiety that is primary or due to other conditions or alcohol dependence.
Do not use Buspirone if:
- You are allergic to buspirone or any other ingredient in the medication.
- You have severe liver or kidney impairment.
- You have epilepsy.
- You have acute poisoning from alcohol, sleeping pills, painkillers, or antipsychotic drugs.
Warnings and Precautions
Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Buspirone if:
- You use other medications affecting the central nervous system.
- You have narrow-angle glaucoma or myasthenia gravis.
- You have impaired liver or kidney function, a history of drug dependence, or seizures.
Although Buspirone doesn't enhance alcohol's effects, avoid combining it with alcohol.
Children and Adolescents
Buspirone is not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age.
Interactions with Other Medications
Buspirone's effectiveness may be affected by other medications. Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are using or planning to use:
- MAO inhibitors (for Parkinson's and depression).
- SSRIs (e.g., fluvoxamine), nefazodone, L-tryptophan, trazodone.
- Lithium (for bipolar disorder).
- Triptans (for migraines).
- Tramadol (pain relief).
- Haloperidol (antipsychotic).
- Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin).
- Antibiotics and antifungals (e.g., erythromycin, itraconazole).
- Heart medications (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil, digoxin).
- Cimetidine (for heartburn).
- Baclofen (muscle relaxant).
- Lefoxidine (for opioid dependence).
- Nabilone (for nausea).
- Antihistamines (for allergies).
- Diazepam (for anxiety and muscle relaxation).
Also inform your doctor if you use herbal remedies, like St. John's Wort.
Buspirone with Food and Drink
Avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice as it increases buspirone levels in the blood.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It's unclear if Buspirone passes into breast milk.
Driving and Using Machinery
Buspirone can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Assess your ability to drive or operate machinery. Review all information in this leaflet and discuss any concerns with your doctor or pharmacist.