New to this group -Buspar Question

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-17-2004
New to this group -Buspar Question
5
Wed, 03-30-2005 - 10:42am
Hello. I am on other message boards on iVillage. I cam to this one because my new GP suggested I go on Buspar for my anxiety. I'd like some in put. And also, if someone would direct me to articles ot links, it would be appreciated.
Janice
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Wed, 03-30-2005 - 3:47pm

Hi, Janice & welcome to our community. Nice to see you in chat. Here are 2 sites that are recommended by iVillage for drug info. Keep in touch. Good luck! (((hugs))) jan
From www.pdrhealth.com
BuSpar

Pronounced: BYOO-spar
Generic name: Buspirone hydrochloride




Why is this drug prescribed?Return to top

BuSpar is used in the treatment of anxiety disorders and for short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety.


Most important fact about this drugReturn to top

BuSpar should not be used with antidepressant drugs known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. Brands include Nardil and Parnate.


How should you take this medication?Return to top

Take BuSpar exactly as prescribed. Do not be discouraged if you feel no immediate effect. The full benefit of this drug may not be seen for 1 to 2 weeks after you start to take it.

--If you miss a dose...


Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...


Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light.


What side effects may occur?Return to top

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking BuSpar.



  • More common side effects may include:
    Dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, light-headedness, nausea, nervousness, unusual excitement




  • Less common or rare side effects may include:
    Anger/hostility, blurred vision, bone aches/pain, confusion, constipation, decreased concentration, depression, diarrhea, fast, fluttery heartbeat, incoordination, muscle pain/aches, numbness, pain or weakness in hands or feet, rapid heartbeat, rash, restlessness, stomach and abdominal upset, sweating/clamminess, tingling or pins and needles, tremor, urinary incontinence, vomiting, weakness




Why should this drug not be prescribed?Return to top

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to BuSpar or similar mood-altering drugs, you should not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Anxiety or tension related to everyday stress usually does not require treatment with BuSpar. Discuss your symptoms thoroughly with your doctor.

The use of BuSpar is not recommended if you have severe kidney or liver damage.


Special warnings about this medicationReturn to top

The effects of BuSpar on the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) are unpredictable. Therefore, you should not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness while you are taking BuSpar.


Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medicationReturn to top

Although BuSpar does not intensify the effects of alcohol, it is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

If BuSpar is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either can be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining BuSpar with the following:

The blood-thinning drug Coumadin
Haloperidol (Haldol)
MAO inhibitors (antidepressant drugs such as Nardil and Parnate)
Trazodone (Desyrel)



Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeedingReturn to top

The effects of BuSpar during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether BuSpar appears in breast milk. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.


Recommended dosageReturn to top

ADULTS

The recommended starting dose is a total of 15 milligrams per day divided into smaller doses, usually 5 milligrams 3 times a day. Every 2 to 3 days, your doctor may increase the dosage 5 milligrams per day as needed. The daily dose should not exceed 60 milligrams.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of BuSpar have not been established in children under 18 years of age.


OverdosageReturn to top

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of BuSpar, seek medical attention immediately.



  • The symptoms of BuSpar overdose may include:
    Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea or vomiting, severe stomach upset, unusually small pupils.

From www.rxlist.com

 

 


 



iVillage Member
Registered: 11-17-2004
Wed, 03-30-2005 - 5:21pm
Thanks for the information. I'm pretty sure I don't want to take it, now that I've read all the possible side effects.
Any suggests? No SSRI, I can't worry about weight issues. My phisical and Medical Health have to take priority.
So what else is out there?
Janice
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Wed, 03-30-2005 - 10:29pm
Welcome from me too!!

Blessings, Suz   Posts in this Community   

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-03-2004
Fri, 04-15-2005 - 8:42am
You should follow your dr.'s instructions and use the BuSpar. I also almost didn't want to go on it b/c of what I read, but it's actually a very mild drug with no side effects for me, at least. Don't be scared away by what people write online.
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-17-2004
Sat, 04-16-2005 - 1:16am
The information on side effects aren't opinions. They are ( I assume), as I remember(questionable), from the drug company itself.
Ever since my cancer, I have been experienced those infintesimal 1-10% minority side effects.
I don't think its worth it right now. It something I can always keep in my back pocket, when other things fail.
Thanks for you coment.
janice