About BuSpar
BuSpar is an Anxiolytic, or anti-anxiety medication, which decreases serotonin in the brain. Like any anti-anxiety medication, this medication can only be used for anxiety treatment. It is ineffective against everyday stress and anxiety because it will not work quickly enough to curb anxiety symptoms.
Some conditions that BuSpar is known to treat include generalized anxiety disorder. BuSpar is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation and under brand names, including buspirone hydrochloride.
BuSpar may be prescribed as a tablet in 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, or 30 mg doses. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage you are prescribed.
If you are prescribed BuSpar, complete the entire course of the anti-anxiety medication unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop.
If you don’t complete your prescription, the anti-anxiety medication may not fully treat your generalized anxiety disorder.
BuSpar uses
There are 2 FDA-approved uses for BuSpar, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here.
Treat generalized anxiety disorder
Anxiety disorders that last longer than six months.
Augmentation of unipolar depression
Currently approved for off-label use.
BuSpar side effects
The side effects associated with taking BuSpar are typically mild. Most BuSpar side effects are associated with dizziness and lightheadedness. BuSpar has some common side effects. They may include:
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Allergic reactions: rash, itching
Severe dizziness
Trouble breathing
Chest pain
Irregular heartbeat
Easy bleeding or bruising
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects or develop other new or concerning symptoms.
How to take BuSpar
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your BuSpar prescription.
Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
BuSpar can come in different forms and doses, so follow the specific instructions on your prescription. It is typically prescribed 1 or 2 times per day. Some particular instructions may include taking 15mg daily and increasing by 5mg daily as needed.
What to avoid while taking BuSpar
BuSpar has 467 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.
Avoiding large amounts of grapefruit juice when taking BuSpar is essential as this can increase the level of BuSpar in the body and any adverse effects.
Ask your doctor for medical advice before taking sleeping pills or muscle relaxants.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking BuSpar.
Some research shows that regular alcohol consumption may increase side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Alcohol may also reduce the medication’s ability to do its job, making it harder to manage anxiety disorders.
Ask your doctor before taking BuSpar if you have a history of drug abuse.
Do not take buspirone if you take a drug with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor activity.
Do not suddenly stop taking BuSpar, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Medication alternatives to BuSpar
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another nonbenzodiazepine or an antidepressant in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Generalized anxiety disorders
BuSpar prescription FAQs
How much does BuSpar cost?
The typical cost of 15 mg tablets of BuSpar is around $12 for a supply of 30 tablets. This price will vary depending on insurance and the pharmacy you choose.
What does BuSpar help with?
Buspar treats anxiety disorders and can be added to other medications.
What time of day should you take BuSpar?
If Buspar is prescribed twice daily, it should be taken in the morning and night, ideally 10-12 hours apart.
How long does it take to get used to taking BuSpar?
Based on clinical trials, Buspar can take 3 to 4 weeks to build up in your system. Of course, signs of improvement, like less worry, can start within a day or so.
How can I refill my BuSpar prescription?
An online doctor or pharmacist can refill Buspar at any local pharmacy.
Who should not take BuSpar?
Anyone who has had a known allergic reaction to BuSpar should not take it. Also, please only use Buspar if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others. This can cause dangerous drug interactions.
What happens if I miss a dose of BuSpar?
Take the missed dose as soon as you can. However, if it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on your regular schedule.
What happens if I take too much BuSpar?
Symptoms of an overdose are dizziness or lightheadedness, severe drowsiness or loss of consciousness, stomach upset, nausea or vomiting, and small pupils.
3 simple steps to request your BuSpar prescription today
Step 1
Book a BuSpar prescription request appointment.
You can book a same-day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your BuSpar prescription.
You can visit a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your BuSpar prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
BuSpar prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your BuSpar prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
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$16.99/month
First month free
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30 days of free membership
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Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
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Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
BuSpar prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Cleveland Clinic. Buspirone Tablets. Accessed on October 16, 2023 at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20084-buspirone-tablets.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. BUSPIRONE Label Information. Accessed on October 16, 2023 at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/018731s051lbl.pdf.
DailyMed. BUSPIRONE HCL- buspirone hydrochloride tablet. Accessed on October 16, 2023 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=6fac36b4-b223-479e-913f-f8c9cdb9e119.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.