Buspar is the brand name for buspirone hydrochloride [1]. It is available generically as buspirone hydrochloride tablets [2].
What is Buspirone Used For?
Buspirone is an anxiolytic medication prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder [3]. It helps to relieve symptoms such as excessive worry, restlessness, and tension [3].
How Does Buspirone Work?
The exact mechanism by which buspirone exerts its anxiolytic effects is not fully understood [4]. However, it is thought to involve its action on serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain [4]. Unlike benzodiazepines, buspirone does not typically cause sedation or withdrawal symptoms and has a lower potential for abuse [4].
When Did Buspirone Go Off Patent?
Buspirone was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1986 [5]. The patent for buspirone has long expired, allowing for the availability of generic versions [6].
Who Makes Generic Buspirone?
Numerous pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic buspirone hydrochloride tablets. These include companies such as Teva Pharmaceuticals, Aurobindo Pharma, and Breckenridge Pharmaceutical [7].
How Does Generic Buspirone Compare to Brand-Name Buspar?
Generic buspirone hydrochloride tablets are bioequivalent to the brand-name drug, Buspar [8]. This means they contain the same active ingredient, dosage form, strength, and route of administration and are expected to have the same clinical effect [8]. Patients can generally expect to experience the same therapeutic benefits and potential side effects with generic buspirone as with brand-name Buspar [8].
Can You Get Buspirone Over-the-Counter?
No, buspirone is a prescription medication and cannot be obtained over-the-counter [3]. It requires a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider to be dispensed.
What Are the Side Effects of Buspirone?
Common side effects associated with buspirone include dizziness, nausea, headache, and nervousness [9]. Less common side effects can include drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision [9]. Patients should discuss any concerns about side effects with their prescribing physician.
What Is the Cost of Generic Buspirone?
The cost of generic buspirone hydrochloride tablets can vary significantly depending on the pharmacy, insurance coverage, and dosage [10]. It is generally much less expensive than the brand-name drug [10]. Prices can range from a few dollars to twenty dollars or more per prescription, depending on these factors [10].
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Sources
[1] https://www.drugs.com/buspar.html
[2] https://www.goodrx.com/buspirone
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499880/
[4] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/204752/buspirone-oral/details
[5] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=reportDetail.view&rptid=1694
[6] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/buspirone
[7] https://www.goodrx.com/buspirone/generics
[8] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/what-generic-drugs-are
[9] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/buspirone-oral-route/side-effects/drh-20070376
[10] https://www.singlecare.com/drugs/buspirone