Their inclusion does not guarantee they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. Healthcare providers may prescribe other medications, including non-stimulant options, or recommend non-pharmacological treatment based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs. Read more
Brand name: Buspar (discontinued)
Generic name: Buspirone
Medication class: Azapirones
Dosage forms: Oral tablets
FDA-approved uses: Anxiety disorders or the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms
Highlights
- Buspirone (generic for Buspar) is a prescription medication used to treat anxiety disorders.
- Online platforms like MEDvidi offer a legal and convenient way to get a buspirone prescription from licensed professionals, if you qualify for it based on a medical evaluation.
- Follow-up care and dosage adjustments are essential for safe, effective treatment.
With healthcare becoming more connected online, it’s now possible to get a prescription for Buspar (buspirone) through telehealth if you’re eligible. This post focuses on what you should know if you’re seeking assistance to treat anxiety and considering using MEDvidi to get an online prescription for Buspar.
What Is Buspirone (Buspar)?
Unlike benzodiazepines, which act directly on GABA receptors, buspirone doesn’t cause sedation or carry a high risk of dependency. Instead, it affects both serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain, two important neurotransmitters involved in mood and emotional regulation. It is thought that interaction with serotonin receptors, specifically the 5-HT1A receptor, is buspirone’s main mode of action, helping to ease symptoms of anxiety, such as worry and restlessness.
Who Can Benefit From Buspirone and Who Should Avoid It?
Buspirone is specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and unipolar depression. It may sometimes be prescribed off-label as an
Because buspirone works gradually, it’s not meant for quick relief of acute anxiety. It usually takes
However, buspirone is not recommended for everyone. People with severe liver or kidney disease, those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), individuals with a history of seizures, or those who’ve had an allergic reaction to buspirone should avoid taking it.
How to Get Buspirone Prescription Online at MEDvidi
Healthcare professionals at MEDvidi are licensed and qualified to prescribe anxiety medications, including Buspirone online, when appropriate. You can only get a prescription for buspirone after a consultation with a medical provider, here is what’s involved in the process.
Step 1: Choose Your Healthcare Provider
You can obtain a buspirone prescription from various licensed professionals, including:
- Primary care physicians (PCPs)
- Psychiatrists
- Nurse practitioners (NPs)
- Physician assistants (PAs)
- Telehealth providers (must be licensed in your state)
MEDvidi is a secure, legal, and convenient telehealth option. With licensed providers, an evidence-based approach, and same- or next-day appointments, MEDvidi is here to help. Create an account and fill in your intake form to start the process.
Step 2: Book Your Appointment
After creating your patient profile, you can book an appointment online at a time that works best for you. With MEDvidi, scheduling is fast and easy through our user-friendly digital platform.
Step 3: Prepare for the Consultation
Before your appointment, be prepared to discuss your medical history and mental health background. Your provider will ask you about your symptoms, so be ready to describe them in detail, including when they started, how often you experience them, their severity, and how they affect your daily life.
You may also want to think about what questions you have about buspirone that you can ask during your appointment. This may include:
- What are the potential side effects?
- How long does it take for buspirone to work?
- What symptoms should I expect it to help with?
Step 4: Undergo Evaluation and Receive Diagnosis and Treatment
During your appointment, your healthcare provider will take the time to understand your mental health concerns in detail, starting with a comprehensive discussion about your symptoms. You may also be asked to complete brief screening tools or questionnaires to assess anxiety levels more objectively.
Additionally, your provider will review your complete medical history, including any current or past health conditions, allergies, and all medications or supplements you are currently taking. Based on this evaluation, the provider will determine if buspirone is appropriate for your condition and safe for you to use. If the provider feels another treatment would be more effective or better tolerated, they may suggest alternative medications, therapy options, or lifestyle recommendations.
Step 5: Receive Your Prescription and Pick Up Medication
If your provider determines that buspirone is the right medication for you, they will electronically send the prescription to a local pharmacy of your choice. This process, known as e-prescribing, is standard for online care and ensures a quick and secure way for you to access your medication. You’ll receive instructions on when and how to pick up your prescription.
Your healthcare provider will explain the appropriate dosage and how to take the medication, which typically starts at 5 mg to 10 mg taken twice per day. Unlike some other medications that offer immediate relief, it generally takes about 2 to 4 weeks to have noticeable benefits.
Your provider will also review any adverse effects you should be aware of, such as dizziness, nausea, or lightheadedness. They will highlight safety precautions like avoiding alcohol and not mixing buspirone with certain other medications or supplements.
Step 6: Continue With Follow-ups and Adjustments
Your provider will want to monitor your response to the medication after you start taking it, including how well it’s relieving your anxiety symptoms and whether you’re experiencing any side effects.
Your provider may also use these appointments to assess whether additional support, such as counseling, is needed. It’s important not to skip follow-ups, especially since buspirone takes time to work, and adjustments are sometimes necessary to find the most effective dose.
MEDvidi makes follow-ups easy and accessible by offering convenient virtual visits, helping you stay connected with your provider and keeping your treatment on track.
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How to Use Buspirone Safely
- Follow your provider’s instructions. Your healthcare professional will provide you with specific dosing instructions based on your individual needs. Typically, buspirone is taken twice daily, at the same times each day. It’s recommended to take buspirone either always with food or always without.
- Do not adjust your dose without medical advice. Do not change your prescribed dose, skip doses, or stop taking the medication without first talking with your provider, even if you begin to feel better. Stopping the medication abruptly may cause your anxiety symptoms to return or worsen.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never double up on doses to make up for a missed dose.
Consuming alcohol while taking buspirone can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or drowsiness and can affect how well buspirone works. Also, check with your provider before taking any sleeping pills or muscle relaxants.
- Store appropriately. Always store your medication in a secure place at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight, and out of reach of children and pets.
- Never share your prescription with others, even if they have similar symptoms, as it may not be safe or appropriate for them.
- Lastly, keep your provider informed about any new or worsening side effects so they can adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Side Effects and Risks
As with most medicines, buspirone tablets have some
The most common side effects include:
- Dizziness
- Stomach upset
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
Less common but potentially serious side effects may include allergic reactions such as rash or itching, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and unusual bleeding or bruising. A rare but serious side effect that may occur with buspirone therapy is serotonin syndrome, which include symptoms such as fever, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, diarrhea, chills, vomiting, or muscle stiffness. Seek emergent medical care if you experience any of these symptoms.
Precautions and Interactions
It is necessary to be aware of specific precautions before beginning treatment to ensure the safe use of buspirone. Some things to be mindful of include:
- Driving/Operating Machinery: Buspirone can cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating potentially dangerous machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
- Alcohol: It’s generally recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking buspirone tablets because of the risk of severe drowsiness when used together.
- Grapefruit Juice: Do not drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit in excess while taking buspirone. Grapefruit juice can increase the level of buspirone levels in your blood, which raises the risk of side effects.
- Use in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of buspirone during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established, so it should be used only if clearly needed and prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Several possible drug interactions may either decrease the effectiveness of buspirone or make the side effects worse. Avoid combining buspirone with MAO inhibitors or certain antidepressants or antibiotics. Combining buspirone with MAO inhibitors, such as phenelzine or selegiline, can increase the risk of dangerously high blood pressure. Do not take buspirone with MAOIs or
Cost and Insurance
Buspirone is generally considered an affordable option for treating anxiety. Without insurance, the average price for a 30-day supply ranges from about $10 to $30. For patients with insurance, the cost is typically much lower, often limited to a small copay, depending on the plan.
Ways to save:
- Pharmacy discount cards such as GoodRx.
- Digital coupons available on sites such as SingleCare or BuzzRx.
- Some stores, such as Costco or Sam’s Club, offer member savings programs for prescriptions.
Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the pharmacy, your location, and whether you have insurance coverage. Taking a few minutes to compare options online or asking your pharmacist about discounts can help you get the best available price.
Alternatives to Buspirone
Buspirone isn’t suitable for everyone. Your provider may decide other anti-anxiety medications are a better treatment option for you. Some common alternatives for anxiety include:
- Prozac (fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (escitalopram)
- Zoloft (sertraline)
- Cymbalta (duloxetine)
- Clonidine
- Propranolol
- Gabapentin
- Trazodone
Bottom Line
At MEDvidi, we care about your mental health needs and create personalized treatment plans for anxiety. Through secure video appointments, you can receive a thorough evaluation and, if appropriate, get a prescription for buspirone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a prescription for buspirone?
Why is buspirone discontinued?
Do doctors still prescribe buspirone?
Yes, buspirone is still widely prescribed for anxiety disorders and is considered a safe, effective treatment.
Who can prescribe Buspar?
Is there an over-the-counter buspirone?
Can I buy Buspar online?
Yes but you still need a clinician’s evaluation via an in-person visit or a video consultation. Avoid any website that offers to sell you this anti-anxiety medication without a valid prescription.
Is there a shortage of buspirone?
While occasional shortages have occurred, buspirone is currently available through most pharmacies.
Can I get a buspirone prescription while on Suboxone treatment?
There is a
