BUSPIRONE (Buspar®) helps to relieve certain states of anxiety. It is chemically different from other medicines that treat anxiety and has very little effect on mental alertness. Buspirone does not produce dependency problems. Generic buspirone tablets are available.

Special precautions

Tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions:

• if you are currently receiving other medications for the treatment of anxiety

• liver disease

• kidney disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to buspirone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

Side effects

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

• blurred vision or other vision changes

• difficulty breathing

• chest pain

• confusion

• feelings of hostility or anger

• muscle aches and pains

• numbness or tingling in hands or feet

• ringing in the ears

• skin rash and itching (hives)

• sore throat

• vomiting

• weakness

Side effects that usually do not require medical

• disturbed dreams, nightmares

• dizziness

• drowsiness

• headache

• nasal congestion

• nausea

• restlessness or nervousness

• stomach upset

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how buspirone affects you. Alcohol can increase possible drowsiness and dizziness and may make you more anxious. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Don’t let anyone else take your medicines.