Dolly asked
I need an opinion regarding driving. I have felt anxious about getting behind the wheel but have been on the Buspar for approximately 4 weeks. Should I try to drive a little at a time? I don’t leave the house really often unless to church. Does it get any easier? I still get butterflies in my stomach if I know someone is going to come over to the house.
Answer
Buspar (buspirone) is a non-benzodiazepine medication used for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.
Unlike benzodiazepines like Xanax and Valium, Buspar is generally not effective for immediate relief of anxiety symptoms as it commonly takes at least one to two weeks before the onset of anti-anxiety effects. Studies have shown that it can take as long as 4 to 6 weeks of consistent dosing to realize the full effects and benefits of the drug.
Although Buspar takes some time to begin working, an advantage of the drug versus benzodiazepines is that Buspar does not usually cause sedation or impact attentiveness. In addition, it does not cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms if the medication is discontinued. Per the prescribing information for Buspar:
"In human and animal studies, buspirone has shown no potential for abuse or diversion and there is no evidence that it causes tolerance, or either physical or psychological dependence."
In terms of taking steps to asses how your therapy is progressing in regard to a reduction of anxiety symptoms with normal activity (e.g. driving, leaving the house), it is best to discuss your treatment plan with your doctor. Buspar can be an effective medication, but it takes time and your overall treatment plan will most likely include cognitive and behavioral therapy as well.
Summary
- Buspar generally takes about 1 to 2 weeks of consistent dosing to notice clinical effects. For this reason, it is not for the immediate relief of anxiety symptoms.
- It can take up to 4 to 6 weeks of dosing for maximum effects.
