There may come a time when you decide to discontinue the FDA-approved Buspirone, and you could experience Buspirone withdrawal symptoms even though the drug is not addictive. Buspirone is a medication used to manage anxiety disorders. It works by affecting serotonin receptors in the brain, helping to improve mood and reduce anxiety. However, discontinuing buspirone requires careful consideration due to its impact on brain neurotransmitters.
In an episode of The HealingUs Podcast, Dr. Ed Ratush discusses the difficulties people face when recovering from withdrawal. He points out the importance of being honest and humble during treatment. Dr. Ratush also discusses the commitment needed for healing and the challenges that come with it. He shares ways to stay mindful of progress and how technology can help recover.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the Buspirone withdrawal symptoms, what you need to know about stopping buspirone, potential side effects, the Buspirone timeline, and how to stop taking buspirone safely.
What is Buspirone?
Buspirone hydrochloride, commonly known as Buspar, is an FDA-approved medication used to manage anxiety and depression. It works by balancing the levels of dopamine and serotonin in your brain, hormones that help regulate mood.
Although buspirone is not considered addictive, discontinuation can lead to Buspirone withdrawal symptoms because it affects brain chemicals.
Buspirone is not linked to dependence, making it a suitable option for people with a history of substance abuse. Some clinical trials even suggest it can aid in heroin withdrawal as an alternative to methadone. Studies have shown that buspirone does not cause withdrawal symptoms, a finding confirmed in both animal and human research.
Buspirone Withdrawal Symptoms
According to NIH, Buspirone is less likely to get addicted or dependent on it. Hence, Buspirone withdrawal symptoms compared to other anxiety medications are less.
Buspirone withdrawal symptoms include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Anxiety
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Unusual weakness
- Burning or tingling in the limbs
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps and stiffness
- Central nervous system issues like confusion, headache, or unusual dreams
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Agitation
- Sweating
- Changes in blood pressure
- Unusual tiredness
In rare cases, you might also experience severe weakness, chest pain, or loss of consciousness. If you notice any of these severe Buspirone withdrawal symptoms, get medical help immediately.
Who is most likely to experience Buspirone Withdrawal Symptoms?
In a study, patients discontinued buspirone abruptly after 8 weeks of treatment, while in another study, patients stopped taking the medication after more than 6 months. In both instances, researchers observed that buspirone withdrawal symptoms were rarely reported during follow-up assessments.
However, any medication affecting the brain might lead to emotional and physical withdrawal symptoms when you lower or stop your dose. The risk of withdrawal symptoms is higher if:
- You were on a high dose
- You took buspirone for a long time
- You have liver or kidney issues
- You are older
- You take other medications that slow down buspirone metabolism.
Often, you can stop the medication without tapering your dose. But if you were on a high dose, took it for a long time, or had severe anxiety before, you might need to reduce your dose over weeks or months gradually.
How long do Buspirone Withdrawal Symptoms last?
Buspirone leaves the body relatively quickly compared to other anxiety or antidepressant medications. Its half-life is 2-3 hours, which means it is usually out of your system within 24-48 hours after your last dose. However, for some people, those with liver or kidney issues, older adults, or those on other medications that affect buspirone, it might take a bit longer to clear.
If you and your mental health provider decide to stop taking buspirone, you can often stop it suddenly. In certain situations, gradually tapering the dose may be recommended over several days or weeks to minimize potential withdrawal symptoms.
The length of withdrawal symptoms can vary. If you feel more anxious after stopping, it might not be withdrawal but a sign that you need a different treatment for your anxiety. Your healthcare provider will help you find the best way to manage this transition.
How do I safely quit Buspirone?
To safely come off Buspar (buspirone), follow a tapering schedule recommended by your doctor. The duration and method of tapering will depend on how long you’ve been on the medication and your dosage. Your healthcare provider will adjust your dose to minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensure a smooth transition.
For addiction treatment options, you might consider:
- Counseling or therapy
- Support groups
- Inpatient Treatments
- Outpatient Treatments
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Behavioral therapies
Consult your healthcare provider for the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.
FAQs: Buspirone Withdrawal Symptoms
Que: How long do withdrawal symptoms from buspirone last?
Ans: Buspirone withdrawal symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may last from a few days to several weeks, depending on how your body reacts.
Que: What happens if you skip a day of buspirone?
Ans: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, it’s okay to skip the missed one and continue with the regular schedule.
Que: Do buspirone side effects go away?
Ans: Common side effects like dizziness, nausea, and headaches usually improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Que: Does buspirone have permanent effects?
Ans: There are no known long-term problems associated with buspirone use.
Que: What happens if you stop taking bupropion suddenly?
Ans: Stopping bupropion suddenly can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and mood changes, though this is rare.
Conclusion
Buspirone is less likely to cause physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms compared to other anxiety medications. While Buspirone withdrawal symptoms can vary and last from a few days to several weeks, they are generally mild.
If you need to stop taking buspirone, you must follow a tapering plan provided by your healthcare provider to ensure a smooth transition and minimize potential symptoms.
