What it means
An anxiolytic used for generalized anxiety disorder. Unlike a benzodiazepineben-zoh-dy-AZ-uh-peenA group of calming drugs that slow brain activity, used for anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal and sedation.Full entry , it causes little sleepiness, does not lead to dependence and does not work right away: it takes 2 to 4 weeks to help, so it is not used for sudden panic or as needed. Common side effects are dizziness, nausea and headache. Its name can be confused with bupropionbyoo-PROH-pee-onAn antidepressant that is also used to help people stop smoking.Full entry .
For the nurse
Teach the client to take it every day as prescribed, to expect a delay before it helps, and to avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice. It is not taken with an MAO inhibitor.
At a glance
| Drug class | anxiolytic (azapirone) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | BuSpar (former US brand) |
| Spanish | buspirona |
| Also written | BuSpar |
Easy to confuse with
bupropion
An antidepressant that is also used to help people stop smoking.
Related terms
benzodiazepine
A group of calming drugs that slow brain activity, used for anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal and sedation.
anxiety
A feeling of worry, fear or unease about something that may happen, often with physical signs such as a racing heart.