Buspirone hydrochloride
Buspirone hydrochloride (BuSpar)
Buspirone hydrochloride
(byou-SPYE-rohn)
Pregnancy Category: B Apo-Buspirone BuSpar Bustab Gen-Buspirone Linbuspirone Novo-Buspirone Nu-Buspirone PMS-Buspirone (Rx)

Classification: Nonbenzodiazepine antianxiety agent

Action/Kinetics: The mechanism of action is unknown. Not chemically related to the benzodiazepines; no anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant properties, or significant sedation has been observed. Binds to serotonin (5-HT_1A) and dopamine (D₂) receptors in the CNS; it is thus possible that dopamine-mediated neurologic disorders may occur. These include dystonia, Parkinson-like symptoms, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia. Peak plasma levels: 1-6 ng/mL 40-90 min after a single PO dose of 20 mg. t1/2: 2-3 hr. Extensive first-pass metabolism; active and inactive metabolites excreted in the urine and through the feces.

Uses: Anxiety disorders, short-term use to relieve symptoms of anxiety due to motor tension, apprehension, autonomic hyperactivity, or hyperattentiveness.

Contraindications: Psychoses, severe liver or kidney impairment, lactation. Not usually indicated for treatment of anxiety and tension due to stress of everyday living.

Special Concerns: Safety and efficacy in children less than 18 years of age not established. A decrease in dose may be necessary in geriatric clients due to age-related impairment of renal function.

Side Effects: CNS: Dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, fatigue, nervousness, excitement, dream disturbances, dysphoria, noise intolerance, euphoria, depersonalization, akathisia, hallucinations, suicidal ideation, seizures, decreased concentration, confusion, anger or hostility, depression. CV: Nonspecific chest pain, hypotension, palpitations, tachycardia, syncope, hypertension. GI: N&V;, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal distress, dry mouth, altered taste, increased appetite, irritable colon. Ophthalmologic: Redness and itching of eyes, conjunctivitis, photophobia, eye pain. Dermatologic: Skin rash, pruritus, dry skin, edema of face, acne, easy bruising, flushing. Neurologic: Paresthesia, tremor, numbness, incoordination. GU: Urinary hesitancy or frequency, enuresis, amenorrhea, pelvic inflammatory disease. Miscellaneous: Tinnitus, sore throat, nasal congestion, altered smell, muscle aches or pains, skin rash, headache, sweating, hyperventilation, SOB, hair loss, galactorrhea, decreased or increased libido, delayed ejaculation.

Overdose Management: Symptoms: Dizziness, drowsiness, N&V;, gastric distress, miosis. Treatment: Immediate gastric lavage; general symptomatic and supportive measures.

Drug Interactions: Grapefruit juice / Plasma levels of buspirone excess sedation MAO inhibitors / BP

How Supplied: Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg

Dosage
•Tablets
Adults: 5 mg t.i.d. Dosage may be increased in increments of 5 mg/day q 2-3 days to achieve optimum effects; the total daily dose should not exceed 60 mg. BuSpar is available in a 15-mg tablet that is scored in 5-mg increments and notched in 7.5-mg increments so clients can take the drug b.i.d. rather than t.i.d.