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Compare Buspirone vs. Xanax

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Buspar (buspirone) and Xanax (alprazolam) are FDA approved to treat anxiety. Xanax is also FDA approved to treat panic disorder. Buspar works by affecting serotonin levels. Xanax works by affecting a chemical GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Buspar is typically taken twice a day, while Xanax is usually taken several times a day. Buspar may be used long-term for anxiety symptoms, but Xanax is often only used for a short period of time. Xanax generally has more serious side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and coordination problems. It’s also a controlled substance, which means it can lead to dependence and misuse. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, and has more serious drug interactions than Buspar. For example, combining Xanax with certain substances, such as opioids or alcohol, can lead to slowed breathing and overdose. While Buspar can cause dizziness and headaches, it isn’t known to cause withdrawal symptoms, misuse, or overdose.

  • Buspirone
    Alprazolam (Xanax)
  • Buspirone
    Alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Summary of Buspirone vs. Xanax

    Summary for Antianxiety
    Prescription only

    Buspirone is used to relieve anxiety, but it's not a first-choice medication. Your provider might consider adding on buspirone if your anxiety symptoms aren't well-controlled by other medications. It's taken by mouth, typically twice daily. Unlike some other anti-anxiety medications, it's not a controlled substance. Some common side effects of buspirone include dizziness, nausea, headache, and nervousness. The brand name Buspar is no longer available.

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. It's approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks in adults. It's taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day or as directed by your healthcare team. To avoid the risk of dependence, alprazolam (Xanax) is meant for short-term treatment only. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include drowsiness and memory problems. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking alprazolam (Xanax) because this can lead to serious interactions.

  • Indications of Buspirone vs. Xanax

    Indications for
    •Anxiety
    Indications for
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
    •Panic disorder

  • Pros and Cons of Buspirone vs. Xanax

    Pros and Const for Antianxiety
    Pros
    •Much lower risk for dependency and withdrawal symptoms than other anti-anxiety medications
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can be taken by children as young as 6 years old
    •Can cut tablets if needed
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice treatment option for anxiety
    •Not for quick relief of anxiety or panic attacks
    •Can take a few weeks to fully kick in
    •Typically taken twice a day
    •Interacts with many medications and grapefruit juice
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can start to work in 30 minutes
    •Available as quick-dissolving tablets or liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    Cons
    •Can cause memory problems, drowsiness, and confusion
    •Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms
    •Not preferred during pregnancy

  • Common Side Effects of Buspirone vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (12%)
    •Drowsiness (10%)
    •Nausea (8%)
    •Headache (6%)
    •Nervousness (5%)
    Common Side Effects for

    Generalized anxiety disorder:

    •Drowsiness (41%)
    •Lightheadedness (21%)
    •Dry mouth (15%)

    Panic disorder:

    •Drowsiness (77%)
    •Fatigue (49%)
    •Poor coordination (40%)
    •Memory issues (33%)
    •Irritability (33%)
    •Appetite changes (28-33%)
    •Thinking problems (29%)
    •Constipation (26%)

    Side effects listed are for the immediate-release forms. Side effects for extended-release form might differ.

  • Warnings of Buspirone vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Withdrawal symptoms from stopping other anxiety medications
    •Don't take with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Potential for misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Harm to babies
    •Interactions with other medications
    •Use with caution in people with depression

  • Prices with our coupons for Buspirone vs. Xanax

    Learn more about Buspirone
    Learn more about Alprazolam

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