When establishing a sufficient buspirone dose, the treating doctor may start low and increase slowly over a number of days to weeks, taking into consideration the patient's response and tolerance. Full anxiolytic effect may take a week or two to be seen. Buspirone is used to treat anxiety usually only in the short term, and is available in most countries only by prescription. It may be known by different trade names in different countries, according to manufacturer.
It has not been entirely established how buspirone works as an anxiolytic, to reduce anxiety, but it is thought to act in some way on neurotransmitters in the brain. It is generally only recommended for the short-term treatment of anxiety and is given under medical supervision. It is not used to treat everyday anxiety and is unrelated to the other drugs available to treat anxiety.
The buspirone dose will be started low and increased slowly every two or three days. This is to minimize the chance of any adverse effects and so that the doctor can monitor the response of the patient. A lower dose may be given to patients who have kidney or liver problems. The prescribed buspirone dose and interval between doses should be followed closely and never increased without discussion with the prescribing doctor.
Regardless of the buspirone dose prescribed, it may interact with any other medications the patient is taking. This includes homeopathic, over-the-counter and complementary medications, which should all be disclosed to the treating doctor. Underlying clinical conditions should also be discussed, as buspirone may be contraindicated in some people. Pregnancy, desired pregnancy and lactation should also be discussed with the doctor.
As with any medication, adverse effects may occur in patients taking buspirone. These may be dose-related and the prescribing doctor will take this into consideration when building up the buspirone dose slowly. Adverse effects that have been reported include headache, dizziness and agitation. It may also cause nausea and confusion so driving and the operation of heavy machinery should be avoided during treatment with buspirone. The sedative effects of the medication may be enhanced by the intake of alcohol and it should therefore be avoided in people taking buspirone.
When using the medication, any adverse effects should be reported to the prescribing doctor immediately. Buspirone, and all other medications, should be kept in a safe place, locked away from children, to prevent accidental overdose. Should overdose occur, urgent medical attention should be sought.
