Buspirone

Buspirone, commonly known by the brand name BuSpar, is a medication primarily used to treat anxiety disorders, particularly generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), or the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms.

You may sometimes see this medication referenced as Buspar - the discontinued brand name for buspirone. Although Buspar is no longer available, the generic version, buspirone, is still widely sold.

To start your journey towards getting help, use our booking widget to schedule a session with one of our psychiatric prescribers. After choosing a prescriber, you can book either an in-person or online appointment. During this session, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your feelings and symptoms. Your psychiatric prescriber will then customize your treatment plan to address your unique needs. If a prescription is necessary, such as Buspirone (Buspar), you can have it filled at your local pharmacy.

Most health insurance plans include coverage for buspirone, but your out-of-pocket costs can vary based on several factors:

• Coverage levels for prescription drugs can differ between employer plans.
• You may need prior authorization from your insurance before buspirone is approved.
• The type of insurance you have can affect the cost.

Cost of Buspirone Without Insurance

The cost of buspirone can vary without insurance coverage, with a 30-day supply ranging from under $10 to $50. Prices can fluctuate based on your location, pharmacy pricing, and other factors.

Before filling your prescription, it's a good idea to ask your pharmacist about the cash price for buspirone. They may also have suggestions for reducing the cost.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider to ensure your medications are managed effectively. Individuals with anxiety disorders who wish to conceive face important decisions, so discussing your options with your prescriber and care team is essential.

Engage in conversations with your prescriber and caregivers to weigh the risks and benefits of treatment. When it comes to breastfeeding while taking buspirone, consider the health advantages alongside the mother's clinical need for the medication and its potential effects on the breastfeeding infant.

Buspirone is available in tablet form and is typically taken by mouth twice daily. It’s important to take it consistently, either always with food or always without food. Be sure to follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask your prescriber or pharmacist if you have any questions. Take buspirone exactly as prescribed - do not adjust the dosage or frequency without your prescribers guidance.

Your prescriber may begin with a low dose and gradually increase it, usually no more than once every 2 to 3 days. It may take several weeks to reach the dose that is most effective for you.

While taking buspirone, it's important to avoid alcohol and illegal drugs, as they can reduce the medication's effectiveness and potentially worsen your condition. Additionally, these substances may heighten the risk of adverse effects, such as increased sedation.

You should not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking buspirone. Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of buspirone that your body absorbs, which can increase the effects and side effects of the medication. This is because grapefruit juice can delay gastric emptying and inhibit the metabolism of buspirone.

Side effects from taking buspirone may include:

• Nausea, headache, or changes in dreams
• Feeling dizzy, drowsy, or lightheaded

Rare and serious side effects can occur with any medication and may be influenced by individual risk factors. Please consult your prescriber to discuss the common side effects of this medication.

You may need to take buspirone daily for 3 to 4 weeks before you begin to notice an improvement.