Sue asked
I was on Buspar for anxiety. The full dose made me dizzy so I took 1/2 the dose. I want to increase it and was wondering if the side effects will lessen. My Dr. Switched me to Zoloft to try but now I am experiencing brutish and stiff neck muscles. I would prefer the Buspar if the side effects will improve.
Answer
Buspar (buspirone) is a non-benzodiazepine alternative for the treatment of anxiety. Although often considered not as effective of benzodiazepines, it has a far better safety profile has not shown any potential for abuse. In addition, there is no evidence that it causes physical or psychological dependence.
In regard to the side effects, dizziness is the most commonly reported adverse reaction. According to the clinical trials for Buspar, 3.4% of patients experienced dizziness. Other CNS (Central Nervous System) effects reported were:
- Insomnia
- Nervousness
- Drowsiness
- Lightheaded feeling
To help lessen the side effects, Buspar is recommended to be tapered to the effective dose. In other words, start at a low dose and work your way up as tolerated to the therapeutic dose. Below are the dosing recommendations:
- Adults: Initially, start with 5 mg to 7.5 mg by mouth twice daily. Increase as needed by 5 mg every 2 to 3 days as tolerated. The typical maintenance dose is 15 to 30 mg per day in 2 to 3 divided dose.
- Children: Initially, start with 2.5 mg to 5 mg by mouth twice daily. Increase by 5 mg every 3 to 7 days as tolerated.
If side effects, such as dizziness, do occur, they typically subside within 2 to 3 days of continuous dosing. However, if the dizziness is intolerable, it is recommended to lower your dose (as you did) and taper up slowly as tolerated. This hopefully will lessen or eliminate the feeling of dizziness you are experiencing.
