Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Brand Name: BuSpar
Generic Name: Buspirone
(byoo spye' rone)

Click here for availability, price comparison, and available pharmacy sources for BuSpar.


Why is BuSpar prescribed?How should BuSpar be used properly?What are the common uses for BuSpar?What special precautions should I follow when using BuSpar?What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking BuSpar? What should I do if I forget a dose of BuSpar?What side effects can BuSpar cause?What storage conditions are needed for BuSpar?What do I do in case of emergency or a BuSpar overdose?What other information should I know about BuSpar?

Why is buspar prescribed?

BuSpar (Buspirone) is used to treat anxiety disorders or in the short-term treatment of symptoms of anxiety.

BuSpar is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

» top

How should buspar be used properly?

Buspirone (BuSpar) comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken two or three times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take buspirone exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Continue to take buspirone even if you feel well. Do not stop taking buspirone without talking to your doctor, especially if you have taken large doses for a long time. Your doctor probably will decrease your dose gradually. This drug must be taken regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is felt.

» top

What are the common uses for buspar?

Buspirone is also used sometimes to treat the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

» top

What special precautions should I follow when using buspar?

Before taking buspirone,

  • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to buspirone or any other drugs.
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially antihistamines; anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenobarbital (Barbita, Luminal, Solfoton), and phenytoin (Dilantin); dexamethasone (Decadron, others); diazepam (Valium); diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac); erythromycin ((E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin, others); haloperidol (Haldol); ketoconazole (Nizoral); itraconazole (Sporanox); MAO inhibitors [phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate)]; muscle relaxants; nefazodone (Serzone); pain medications or narcotics; rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane); ritonavir (Norvir); sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; trazodone (Desyrel); verapamil (Calan, Covera, Verelan); and vitamins.
  • tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease or a history of alcohol or drug abuse.
  • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking buspirone, call your doctor.
  • if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking buspirone.
  • you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
  • remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

» top

What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking buspar?

You may take buspirone either with or without food, but take it consistently, either always with food or always without food.

Avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking buspirone.

» top

What should I do if I forget a dose of buspar?

You should take the missed dose of buspar just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless,  it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.

» top

What side effects can buspar cause?

Although side effects from buspirone are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

  • difficulty sleeping
  • lightheadedness
  • upset stomach
  • stomach pain
  • nervousness
  • constipation
  • drowsiness
  • excitement
  • depression
  • numbness
  • weakness
  • dry mouth
  • headache
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • fatigue

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

  • unusual movements or the head or neck muscles
  • fast or irregular heartbeat
  • blurred vision
  • skin rash
  • itching

» top

What storage conditions are needed for buspar?

Always keep buspar in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom. 

Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

» top

What do I do in case of emergency or a buspar overdose?

In case of an buspar overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

  • upset stomach
  • blurred vision
  • drowsiness
  • dizziness
  • vomiting

» top

What other information should I know about buspar?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to buspirone.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

» top

This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.

» top

Compare BuSpar Prices Online - No Prescription Pharmacies Available through ePharmacies Listings

 Free Drug Search