Many people in the United States live with anxiety disorders that impair their day-to-day functioning. Each year, doctors write millions of prescriptions for medications that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and panic. Several of these medications are household names, including Valium and Xanax.
But there are other drugs that people take to manage anxiety, which may be less well-known. One of these is a medication called buspirone–sold under the name BuSpar.
Like other prescription anti-anxiety drugs, buspirone can be addictive. People may abuse their prescription buspirone or take it recreationally for its sedative effects. In time, buspirone abuse can lead to physical tolerance and addiction. People who develop buspirone addiction often require professional treatment and ongoing support to stop taking the drug and avoid relapse.
This article will explore buspirone abuse and addiction, including how to recognize these conditions and where to find the treatment you need to overcome them. Reach out to the team at the Mandala Healing Center now to learn more about buspirone abuse and addiction treatment in West Palm Beach or to find support during any stage of your recovery journey.
What is Buspirone (BuSpar)?
Buspirone is a prescription anti-anxiety medication belonging to a class of drugs known as azapirones. It is sold under the brand name BuSpar.
Doctors can prescribe buspirone to people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a mental health condition with symptoms that include:
- Restlessness
- Excessive worry
- Fatigue
Buspirone works similarly to other anti-anxiety medications by slowing activity in the central nervous system (CNS). People who take buspirone often experience a significant decrease in their stress and anxiety levels, allowing them to feel more relaxed and worry less.
Like all other medications, buspirone can cause unintended side effects, including:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Muscle spasms
- Tremors
Buspirone can also be used in the treatment of other conditions, including:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Tension headaches
- Menopausal symptoms
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Buspirone misuse can lead to physical dependence and addiction. People who take it must be aware of the signs of addiction and seek treatment as soon as they recognize a problem.
Understanding Buspirone Abuse
While BuSpar may not be as familiar to some as other prescription anti-anxiety drugs, many people abuse and become addicted to it. Buspirone can produce feelings of contentment, relaxation, and, in high doses, euphoria.
People who take buspirone to manage anxiety may find these feelings desirable and begin to misuse it. Some may also take it recreationally–without a prescription–to experience these pleasurable effects.
Buspirone misuse includes:
- Taking a larger dose than prescribed
- Taking more frequent doses
- Using buspirone differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
- Combining buspirone with other prescription drugs, alcohol, or illicit substances
Taking larger or more frequent doses of buspirone can lead to physical tolerance, meaning your body needs more of the drug to feel the effects. People with tolerance to buspirone may take increasingly large doses, putting themselves at risk for overdose and physical dependence or addiction.
Recognizing Buspirone Abuse and Addiction
Buspirone abuse and addiction can change the way a person looks, thinks, feels, and behaves. Recognizing the signs of buspirone abuse and addiction is the first step in finding treatment to overcome these conditions.
Here are some signs of buspirone abuse and addiction:
- Sleep problems
- Slurred speech
- Constant cravings for buspirone
- Using buspirone recreationally–without a prescription
- Taking larger or more frequent doses of buspirone than prescribed
- Stealing buspirone from others
- Having more than one prescription for buspirone from multiple doctors
- Isolating themselves from loved ones
- Lying about or covering up their buspirone use
- Neglecting hobbies, relationships, work, and other responsibilities
- Facing legal or financial trouble because of buspirone use
- They experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking buspirone
- Having anxiety about running out of buspirone
People who abruptly stop taking buspirone may experience uncomfortable or dangerous withdrawal effects. It’s important to seek professional support and treatment during detox to avoid severe physical and mental health complications.
Buspirone Abuse and Addiction Treatment
Addiction is a complex condition that affects every part of a person’s life. People with buspirone addiction require comprehensive, compassionate treatment and continuing support to address the underlying physical, behavioral, and emotional roots of their substance abuse and avoid relapse later.
Treatment for buspirone addiction begins with an evaluation to assess a person’s risk for complications during withdrawal and treatment and determine which level of care is needed.
Many people begin treatment for buspirone addiction in a medically-supported detox program. People in a detox program receive medications, emotional support, and monitoring that can keep them safe and comfortable during withdrawal.
After detox is complete, people continue treatment in a comprehensive rehab program that includes:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Relapse-prevention education
- Coping skills practice
- Massage, yoga, nutrition support, and other holistic therapies
- Aftercare planning
Buspirone abuse and addiction treatment can help people stop taking buspirone safely and avoid relapse, letting them lead the healthier, sober lifestyle they choose.
Find Buspirone Abuse and Addiction Treatment in West Palm Beach
If you or someone you love lives with buspirone abuse or addiction, you are not alone. The treatment and support you need are available at the Mandala Healing Center. Call our admissions team now to learn about our exceptional holistic treatment programs or to schedule an intake assessment.