Evaluation of the safety and side effects of antianxiety agents

Historically, the use of anxiolytic drugs has been associated with a relatively high incidence of side effects, particularly those related to central nervous system depression and sedation. These side effects can impair the patient's ability to function and, thus, interfere with the full achievement of therapeutic goals. In this article, the evolution of anxiolytic drug therapy from the perspective of safety and side effects is reviewed. Moreover, data concerning the safety of buspirone--a novel, non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic that has been shown to provide anxiolytic efficacy comparable to that of the benzodiazepines, but with a significantly lower potential for central nervous system depressant effects, interactions with alcohol, dependence, and abuse--are discussed.