BuSpar is supplied as tablets for oral administration containing 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, or 30 mg of buspirone hydrochloride. The 5-mg and 10-mg tablets are scored so they can be bisected. The 15-mg and 30-mg tablets are provided in the DIVIDOSE® tablet design. These tablets are scored so they can be either bisected or trisected. BuSpar Tablets contain the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate. The 30-mg tablet also contains iron oxide.

Use Directions

Take this medication with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take more often than prescribed. Symptoms will begin to improve within 7 to 10 days of starting this medication. However, it may take 3 to 4 weeks for the full benefit of the medication to be apparent.

Side Effects

This medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, weakness, vivid dreams, sleeplessness, dry skin, blurred vision, altered sense of taste and smell, weight gain, muscle aches, ringing in the ears, nausea, headaches. If effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience abnormal movements or "twitches" of the face or neck muscles, or other involuntary movements or tremors, depression, confusion, incoordination, chest pain, breathing difficulties. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Warnings

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. It is possible that you will experience some drowsiness or dizziness at the start of therapy. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Buspar.

Drug Interactions

Buspar may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any prescription or over-the-counter medicine without first talking to your doctor. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Buspar. The interaction could lead to potentially adverse effects. You should discuss the use of grapefruit and grapefruit juice with your doctor.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

Storage

Store it at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.