Buspirone
Buspar (buspirone) is a prescription anxiolytic medication used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Unlike benzodiazepines, it is non-sedating and has no potential for abuse or dependence, making it a preferred option for long-term anxiety management.
Buspar is a non-sedating, non-habit-forming medication used to treat generalized anxiety disorder.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 154990
- Generic
- Buspar
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Buspar is FDA-approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults. It may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions such as panic disorder, depression, and anxiety associated with other conditions.
Buspirone's exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed to work primarily as a partial agonist at serotonin 5-HT1A receptors in the brain. This action is thought to reduce anxiety symptoms by modulating serotonin activity, though it does not cause sedation or muscle relaxation like benzodiazepines.
Buspar does not cause dependence or withdrawal and is not a controlled substance, but it requires consistent daily dosing and may take 2-4 weeks to achieve full therapeutic effect. It should not be combined with MAO inhibitors or taken with grapefruit juice, as both can increase drug levels and risk of side effects.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed September 3, 2026. · Read our editorial policy