High on Buspar?
Buspar, also known as Buspirone, is often prescribed for the treatment of severe anxiety disorder. It is important to know that this drug is not a benzodiazepine, so it does not give the user any kind of ‘high.’ It merely calms and reduces anxiety, irritability, fear, paranoia, and a pounding heartbeat. That is, unfortunately, not the whole story. There are distinct dangers when a person has an addiction and buspirone is in the mix.
Is Buspirone Addictive?
A recent study entitled “Abuse Potential of Buspirone and Related Drugs” concluded that buspirone doesn’t have a high potential for abuse. That does, however, not mean that the drug is not abused. A fairly large number of anecdotal reports indicate that Buspar abuse might not be common, but that there are people who use it in a harmful and even dangerous manner.
Addiction and Buspirone Common Dangers
One way in which buspirone is often abused is by combining it with alcohol in an attempt to boost its sedative properties. This combination is not just dangerous—it can be lethal. The reason is that both buspirone and alcohol have a sedative effect on the user. Using them in combination could result in over-sedation, even to the extent that the user goes into respiratory depression. Once that happens, falling into a coma and even dying becomes very real possibilities.
Buspirone is also not recommended as an anti-psychotic medication and should never be used in combination with MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) because this could cause potentially lethal side effects. These and more, are specific reasons that prescription drug addiction and the fallout effects are more expansive than they may appear.
Buspar and Alcohol Common Questions:
1. What are the dangers of mixing Buspirone with alcohol?
Answer: Mixing buspar with alcohol can significantly increase the risk of side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some individuals may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. The combination can enhance the sedative effect of both substances, leading to an increased risk of accidents or injuries. Additionally, consuming alcohol while taking buspirone can exacerbate the symptoms of anxiety and depression, potentially diminishing the therapeutic effects of buspirone.
2. How does alcohol affect the efficacy of Buspirone?
Answer: Alcohol can interfere with the mechanism of action of buspirone and its absorption and metabolism in the body. This interference can reduce the effectiveness of buspirone in treating anxiety and other related disorders. Alcohol may also negate the calming effects of buspirone, leading to increased anxiety and stress levels, counteracting the intended benefits of the medication.
3. Can drinking alcohol while taking Buspirone lead to increased side effects?
Answer: Yes, drinking alcohol while taking buspirone can lead to an increase in side effects associated with both substances. The central nervous system depressant effects of alcohol can amplify those of buspirone, leading to enhanced drowsiness, sedation, and cognitive impairment. This can make activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, particularly dangerous. Additionally, the combination can lead to heightened feelings of depression or anxiety, further complicating the treatment of these conditions.
How Do You Treat Buspirone Addiction/Abuse?
Anyone who has been using buspirone on a regular basis, either as prescribed or illicitly, should never stop using it abruptly. This can cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as tingling or burning, drowsiness, anxiety, confusion, muscle cramps, insomnia, and sweating and can require a drug detoxification treatment—especially if there is a substance use disorder involved.
When attempting to find recovery from addiction and buspirone, the best option talk to a professional. If you have been using it according to a doctor’s prescription, this process can also be managed by a doctor. If you have been abusing buspirone, however, the best option is to contact a qualified rehab facility. Addiction centers have the necessary skills and knowledge to help you cope with withdrawal symptoms.
To manage the addiction, you will have to go through a number of behavioral and psychological treatments. Depending on the severity, there may be a possibility of an intensive outpatient program—where you live at home during addiction treatment. Regardless, call us today. Our team is experienced and ready to answer any questions about addiction treatment options in the northwest Arkansas area.
