[Azaspirodecanodiones in clinical psychiatry]

The authors achieve a review of some clinical and therapeutic features related to the use of azaspirodecanodiones (buspirones, gepirone, ipsapirone). Buspirone--the only one available--is a novel nonbenzodiazepine anxiolytic that shows affinity for the serotonin 1A receptor subtype, acting as a partial agonist in the serotonergic system. This review attempts to put up to date the therapeutic studies of azaspirodecanodiones--especially buspirone--in anxiety (panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder), depression abuse and dependence of substances and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Though its main indication is generalized anxiety disorder, it may be also useful in treating other disorders and multiple psychopathologies related to serotonergic system dysfunctions, such as depression or alcoholism. Other interesting feature of buspirone is its potential usefulness in anxious elderly patients and long-term therapy.