Buspirone: a new type of anxiolytic

Buspirone is a member of a new class of agents known as azaspirodecanediones, and represents the first nonbenzodiazepine anxiolytic to be introduced in the U.S. in recent years. It does not resemble the benzodiazepines or older anxiolytics such as meprobamate and the barbiturates in pharmacologic profile. Buspirone lacks anticonvulsant activity, interacts minimally with central nervous system depressants such as alcohol, and does not cause muscle relaxation. The drug is reported to have minimal sedating effect, to cause no impairment of driving-related skills, and to have no euphoriant effect or addictive potential. With this low side-effect profile, buspirone should not require Drug Enforcement Agency scheduling controls. Clinical trials indicate buspirone is efficacious in the treatment of mild to moderate anxiety disorders. Answers to questions of possible side effects related to dopaminergic intractions must await post-marketing experience. Buspirone is a suitable addition to drug formularies as its pre-marketing data suggest several advantages compared with anxiolytics currently available.