$Unique_ID{BRK01859}
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$Title{BUSPIRONE}
$Subject{BuSpar (Bristol-Myers)}
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Copyright (C) 1991 Publications International, Ltd.


BUSPIRONE
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BRAND NAME (Manufacturer):
     BuSpar (Bristol-Myers)
TYPE OF DRUG:
     Antianxiety agent
INGREDIENT:
     buspirone hydrochloride
DOSAGE FORM:
     Tablets (5 mg and 10 mg)
STORAGE:
     Buspirone should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed
       container.  Avoid exposure to high temperatures (greater than 86
       degrees_F).

USES

     Buspirone is prescribed to treat the symptoms of anxiety.  It is not yet
clear exactly how this medication works.  Buspirone has been shown to be
effective in relieving symptoms of anxiety, but it is important to try to
remove the cause of the anxiety as well.

TREATMENT

     Buspirone should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor.  It can be
taken with food or a full glass of water if stomach upset occurs.
     If you are taking this drug regularly and miss a dose, take the missed
dose immediately if you remember within an hour.  If more time has passed,
however, skip the dose you missed and wait for the next scheduled dose.  Do
not double the dose.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Diarrhea, dizziness, excitement, fatigue, headache, lightheadedness,
nasal congestion, nausea, nervousness, sleeping problems, sweating, or
weakness.  These side effects should disappear as your body adjusts to this
medication.
     If you feel dizzy or light-headed, sit or lie down for a while; get up
slowly from a sitting or reclining position, and be careful on stairs.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
chest pain, confusion, feelings of anger, incoordination, muscle pain,
numbness, rash, ringing in the ears, sore throat, tingling in your fingers or
toes, or tremors.

INTERACTIONS

     Although extensive studies have not yet been completed, buspirone may
interact with several other medications.
     To prevent oversedation, this drug should not be taken with alcohol or
other central nervous system depressants (such as antihistamines,
barbiturates, muscle relaxants, pain medicines, narcotics, medicines for
seizures, phenothiazine tranquilizers, and antidepressants).
     Before starting buspirone, BE SURE TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about any
medications you are currently taking, especially any of those listed above.

     WARNINGS

     * Before starting buspirone, be sure to tell your doctor about any
unusual or allergic reactions you have had to any medications, especially to
buspirone.
     * Tell your doctor if you now have or if you have ever had kidney
disease, liver disease, or psychiatric disorders.
     * Until you experience how this medication affects you, do not drive a
car or operate potentially dangerous machinery.
     * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  Although buspirone
appears to be safe in animals, studies in pregnant women have not been
conducted.  Also, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an infant.  Small
amounts of buspirone have been shown to pass into the milk of animals.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
