I haven't had much luck with SSRIs in the past, but I know Buspar is a bit different. Does it effect seratonin in the same way? Do you have to avoid almost all cold medications, etc while taking it like you do with an SSRI?
Does Buspar affect seratonin?
Question posted by reneegavin on 26 May 2022
Last updated on 26 May 2022
Answers
WildcatVet
26 May 2022
Hi, renee!
This is answer from Very Well Minds:
"It is most often prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder. BuSpar impacts neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine. Specifically, it is a serotonin receptor agonist, which means that it increases action at serotonin receptors in your brain. This, in turn, helps to alleviate anxiety."
As far as the cold medicine the medications in combination could cause some dizziness and drowsiness depending on the cold medication you're using.
You can ask your pharmacist/chemist for a recommendation or you can use the Interaction Checker with the name of specific products.
https://www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.html
reneegavin
26 May 2022
So I'm guessing there's just as high of a risk of serotonin syndrome with this one as with the others?
WildcatVet
26 May 2022
Although rare serotonin syndrome most frequently develops when two or more serotonin affecting medications are combined. For instance, BuSpar with an antidepressant(s) or when two antidepressants are prescribed.
It affects very few patients taking BuSpar alone:
"Very rare (less than 0.01%): Serotonin syndrome"
You should certainly be aware of the early symptoms because serotonin syndrome is very treatable in the early stages, but it's not of major concern with BuSpar.
You can always check with your doctor or pharmacist for professional opinions.
Related topics
buspar, medication, serotonin syndrome, ssri
Further information
- BuSpar uses and safety info
- BuSpar prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of BuSpar (detailed)
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