As is the case with any other medication, there may be some instances where buspirone interactions can occur. In such cases, use is not recommended or usage will have to be adjusted in order to prevent or reduce the risk of negative interactions occurring from other drugs, medical conditions, or even food and drink.
Drug Interactions
According to the FDA, drugs that may interact with this medication include the following:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), since it may lead to serotonin syndrome and result in effects such as elevated blood pressure, tremor, sweating, agitation, elevated body temperature.
Please note that this list may not be complete, and other interactions with drugs not listed here may occur.
Trazodone
The use of trazodone and buspirone may cause higher levels of SGPT (ALT) liver blood tests based on one report.
Xanax (Alprazolam)
Buspirone has not been found to have any significant interactions with Xanax. However, individuals should discuss safety concerns and risks with their prescribing doctor before taking both of these medications.
Metoprolol
Taking metoprolol and buspirone might result in a decrease in blood pressure, which might cause certain side effects, such as lightheadedness, headaches, and changes in pulse or heart rate.
Zoloft (Sertraline)
The use of Zoloft and buspirone might raise the risk of experiencing serotonin syndrome, which occurs when serotonin levels become too high. This condition is rare, but it can become life-threatening. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include extreme blood pressure changes, sweating, increased heart rate, stomach cramps, blurry vision, and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to a coma or be fatal.
Tylenol (Acetaminophen)
Buspirone has not been found to have any significant with interactions with Tylenol.
Lexapro (Escitalopram)
The use of Lexapro and buspirone may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Since this condition can be fatal in severe cases, these medications should not be used together.
Wellbutrin (Bupropion)
The use of Wellbutrin and buspirone was not found to cause any interactions. Individuals should still let their doctor know about any medications they are taking, including Wellbutrin, before starting buspirone.
Gabapentin (Neurontin)
Taking gabapentin and buspirone might increase certain side effects, such as trouble concentrating, lightheadedness, drowsiness, and confusion. Some individuals might also have trouble with motor coordination and experience impaired thinking when taking both of these medications.
Prozac (Fluoxetine)
Using Prozac and buspirone may increase the risk of experiencing serotonin syndrome, which is rare but can be fatal.
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)
Taking Benadryl and buspirone may increase drowsiness, dizziness, and other side effects. In some individuals, taking these medications together might lead to impaired judgment and thinking, as well as problems with motor coordination.
Food Interactions
Sometimes the foods we eat and the beverages we drink can also interact with our medications. Food and drink that may interact with this drug include:
- Grapefruit and grapefruit juice
Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other foods and beverages that interact with this drug.
Buspirone and Alcohol
For more information, please visit our page on buspirone and alcohol interactions.
Caffeine
Consuming caffeine while taking buspirone is not shown to have any significant interactions. However, there may be a small risk of experiencing increased side effects, such as dizziness or nervousness. Individuals should discuss caffeine consumption and the use of buspirone with their doctor.
Disease & Conditions Interactions
Sometimes certain medications can increase the risk of side effects for patients with certain diseases or other medical conditions. According to the FDA, diseases and medical conditions that are known to negatively interact with buspirone include:
- Severe hepatic or renal impairment due to the potential for increased plasma levels of buspirone.
Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other diseases and medical conditions where patients should not take this medication.
Buspirone and Pregnancy
For more information, please visit our page on buspirone and pregnancy risks.
Sex Drive
The use of buspirone has been shown to improve sexual dysfunction, such as ejaculatory dysfunction or decreased libido, in those taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI)s for depression based on the findings of a 1999 study. Roughly 58 percent of individuals in the study reported improvements while taking buspirone.
Weight Gain
Weight gain affects roughly 0.1 to 1 percent of individuals who take buspirone, although whether or not this change is caused by this medication is unknown.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
