Generic Name: buspirone hydrochloride
Brand Name: BuSpar
Pregnancy Category B
Drug class
Anxiolytic
Therapeutic actions
Mechanism of action not known; lacks antiseizure, sedative, or muscle relaxant properties; binds serotonin receptors, but the clinical significance is unclear.
Indications
• Management of anxiety disorders or short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety
• Unlabeled use: Decreasing the symptoms (aches, pains, fatigue, cramps, irritability) of PMS
Contraindications and cautions
• Contraindicated with hypersensitivity to buspirone; marked liver or renal impairment; lactation.
• Use cautiously with pregnancy, mild renal or hepatic impairment.
Available forms
Tablets—5, 10, 15 mg
Dosages
ADULTS
Initially, 15 mg/day PO (5 mg tid). Increase dosage 5 mg/day at intervals of 2–3 days to achieve optimal therapeutic response. Do not exceed 60 mg/day. Divided doses of 20–30 mg/day have been used.
PEDIATRIC PATIENTS
Safety and efficacy for children < 18 yr not established.
Pharmacokinetics
|
Route |
Onset |
Peak |
|
Oral |
7–10 days |
40–90 min |
Metabolism: Hepatic; T1/2: 3–11 hr
Distribution: May enter breast milk
Excretion: Urine
