Buspirone, also known by its brand name BuSpar, is an anti-anxiety medication used since the 1960s to manage anxiety disorders. While it was introduced as a safer alternative to benzodiazepines, many people still ask, “Can you get high on buspirone?” or “Is buspirone addictive?” This guide explores those concerns and shows you how Hope Harbor Wellness can help if you’re struggling with misuse or addiction to BuSpar.
What Is Buspirone (BuSpar)? How It Works & Uses
BuSpar (buspirone) is prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It works by affecting key brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, which help regulate mood and anxiety levels.
- Buspirone doesn’t sedate like some other medications.
- It targets imbalanced neurotransmitters without making you feel sleepy.
- It’s often used by individuals who want to manage anxiety while staying alert during the day.
Doctors typically recommend BuSpar to help reduce constant worry, tension, and symptoms like dizziness or a racing heart. In some cases, it’s used off-label to manage PMS, support smoking cessation, or assist with depression when paired with other medications.
Buspirone is not intended to treat severe psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Can You Get High on Buspirone?
If you’re wondering, “Can you get high on buspirone?” the answer is complicated. When taken as prescribed, buspirone doesn’t cause euphoria or intoxication. However, if misused in large doses, it can cause a short-lasting sensation of calmness that some people perceive as a “high.”
Understanding a Buspirone High
To feel a buspirone high, a person would need to take significantly more than the recommended dose. This is considered abuse and can be dangerous. Effects of a buspirone high include:
- Sedation
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Extreme calm
These effects typically last no longer than 30 minutes. Still, taking excessive doses or combining buspirone with other substances (like alcohol or opioids) can cause serious side effects and increase the risk of addiction.
Never snort, inject, or combine BuSpar with other substances. Take it only as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
How Does Buspirone Make You Feel?
When used properly, buspirone helps reduce symptoms of anxiety without creating a buzz or a high.
You may feel:
- Calmer and less anxious
- Able to focus better
- Physically more at ease, with fewer symptoms like a rapid heart rate or muscle tension
- Alert, without the drowsiness caused by other anxiety medications
Buspirone takes time to work. You may not feel the full effects for several weeks. Always take it as directed and speak with your doctor if you have concerns.
Buspirone High vs. Xanax High
BuSpar and Xanax are both used to treat anxiety, but they are very different when it comes to how they affect the brain and body.
BuSpar high
- Mild and short-lived
- Typically lasts around 30 minutes
- Less likely to be abused
Xanax high
- Strong sense of calm or euphoria
- Can last for several hours
- Higher potential for abuse and addiction
In short, while both drugs treat anxiety, Xanax is far more addictive due to its intense and long-lasting high. BuSpar carries a much lower risk and is better suited for long-term anxiety management when used properly.
Buspirone Abuse
Even though buspirone is not considered highly addictive, it can still be misused. Buspirone abuse happens when someone:
- Takes higher doses than prescribed
- Mixes it with alcohol or other drugs
- Uses it in a way not intended (like snorting)
- Seeks out the drug for non-medical reasons
Understanding how buspirone works and sticking to your prescription is key to avoiding complications. If misuse has already started, Hope Harbor Wellness can help you recover safely.
Buspirone Drug Class
Buspirone is classified as an anxiolytic from the azapirone class. It’s different from benzodiazepines and barbiturates because:
- It doesn’t work immediately
- It isn’t sedating at standard doses
- It’s used mostly for GAD
Unlike drugs like Xanax or Valium, buspirone takes time to build up in your system. You’ll usually feel the effects within 2 to 4 weeks.
Is Buspirone Addictive?
So, is buspirone addictive? Technically, it carries a low risk of addiction, especially compared to benzodiazepines. Still, misuse can lead to:
- Physical symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness
- Mental symptoms such as confusion, irritability, or increased anxiety
- Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
Never increase your dose or stop cold turkey without medical advice. Buspirone addiction is rare but possible when the drug is abused.
Buspirone Side Effects
Before taking buspirone, it’s important to know the possible side effects.
Common Buspirone Side Effects
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Excitement
- Insomnia
- Sweating
Dizziness is the most frequently reported side effect and affects about 10% of users.
Serious Buspirone Side Effects
- Thyroid issues
- Hallucinations
- Eye pain or vision changes
- Heart problems
- Suicidal thoughts
Seek immediate help if you experience any severe or unusual symptoms.
Buspirone Withdrawal Symptoms
Long-term use of buspirone can lead to withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly.
Common withdrawal effects include:
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Muscle tension
- Feeling detached or out of body (depersonalization)
To avoid withdrawal, always taper the medication slowly with help from a healthcare provider or a team like Hope Harbor Wellness.
Does Buspirone Cause Weight Gain?
Concerned about weight gain? Most users report no weight changes. Buspirone is not typically associated with significant weight gain, unlike other anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications.
Buspirone Dosage
Buspirone is typically taken two or three times a day.
Dosages range from:
- 5mg to 30mg per day
- Scored tablets can be split to adjust your dose as needed
- Many people feel best on 15mg to 30mg daily
- Doses may be increased gradually every few days under supervision
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses at once.
Avoid grapefruit juice and alcohol while taking buspirone.
How Does Buspirone Work?
Buspirone works by interacting with neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine in the brain. It increases serotonin activity by acting as a serotonin receptor agonist, which helps:
- Decrease anxiety
- Improve mood
- Reduce physical symptoms like tension and restlessness
Doctors often use it in combination with SSRIs if a single medication isn’t enough.
Buspirone and Alcohol: The Dangers of Mixing the Two
Combining alcohol with buspirone is risky and should always be avoided.
Why It’s Dangerous:
- Both depress the nervous system
- Can cause extreme drowsiness, confusion, and slowed breathing
- Increases the risk of accidents or overdose
Symptoms of Mixing:
- Sleepiness or trouble staying awake
- Disorientation
- Trouble breathing
- Loss of coordination
Always avoid alcohol while taking BuSpar. Ask your doctor if you have questions.
Risk Factors That Can Lead to Buspirone Overdose
Some common risk factors for overdose include:
- Genetic predisposition to anxiety or addiction
- Stressful environments or trauma
- Mental illness or chronic physical pain
- Taking it in non-prescribed ways (snorting, injecting)
- Mixing with other medications or alcohol
- Using more frequently than recommended
Hope Harbor Wellness can help if you or a loved one is at risk of overdose or misuse.
Triggers of Buspirone Abuse and How to Avoid Them
Anxiety and Stress
Stress is one of the top reasons people misuse anti-anxiety medications. Recognizing your triggers and seeking support early can help avoid misuse.
HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired)
These emotional states are common triggers for misuse. Practicing mindfulness or speaking to a mental health provider can help.
Mental or Physical Illness
Pain and untreated mental health issues can lead to self-medication. A personalized treatment plan from Hope Harbor Wellness can guide safer options.
People or Places Associated with Past Use
Avoid environments or social groups that encourage misuse. Build new routines in safer, healthier spaces.
Overconfidence in Recovery
Thinking “one extra dose won’t hurt” is a dangerous mindset. Long-term support is crucial to recovery success.
Celebrations and Special Occasions
Holidays, birthdays, or vacations can create pressure. Plan ahead and bring support with you if needed.
How to Recognize the Symptoms of Buspirone Overdose
Signs in Yourself
- Craving the drug or needing more to feel “normal”
- Hiding your use
- Ignoring responsibilities
- Feeling sick when doses wear off
Signs in Others
- Isolation
- Sudden behavior changes
- Declining work or school performance
- Physical signs like weight loss or lack of grooming
If you notice these signs, reach out to a treatment center like Hope Harbor Wellness for help.
Begin Your Buspirone Addiction Treatment with Hope Harbor Wellness
Hope Harbor Wellness stands ready to support those battling an Buspirone addiction in Atlanta, GA, with tailored outpatient treatment programs designed to promote recovery and long-term wellness.
At Hope Harbor Wellness, our comprehensive Buspirone addiction treatment includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
- Family Therapy
- Holistic Therapy
- Group Therapy
- Individual Therapy
- Outpatient Detox
- Outpatient Treatment
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our committed team is dedicated to aiding individuals on their path to recovery, providing essential tools and support needed to overcome addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with Buspirone addiction, we are here to help. Contact Hope Harbor Wellness today at 770-230-4257 or fill out our contact form to learn how we can assist you in regaining control and achieving sustainable recovery.
Buspirone FAQs
How long does buspirone stay in your system?
Most of the drug leaves the bloodstream within 24 hours, though traces remain in urine up to three days.
Can buspirone interact with over-the-counter pain relievers?
Buspirone generally mixes safely with acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but confirm with your pharmacist for personal health factors.
Will buspirone appear on a standard drug screen?
Typical workplace panels do not test for buspirone. Specialized assays can detect it if specifically ordered.
How soon will I feel better after starting buspirone?
Many users notice early shifts within two weeks, with full calm arriving around weeks four to six.
Is it safe to drive while taking buspirone?
Most people drive safely once they know how the medicine affects them—wait a few days at first, and avoid the wheel if dizzy.
What should I do if I accidentally double my dose?
Call your doctor or poison control right away, stay seated, and monitor for dizziness, heavy drowsiness, or confusion.
Can pregnant or breastfeeding people use buspirone?
Data are limited. Discuss all risks and benefits with your obstetrician or pediatric provider before continuing or starting treatment.
