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Compare Lexapro vs. Buspar

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

Key takeaways

Lexapro (escitalopram) and Buspar (buspirone) are FDA approved to treat anxiety. But they’re not in the same medication class. Lexapro (escitalopram) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that’s also FDA approved for depression. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Buspar also works by affecting serotonin, but it’s not an SSRI. Buspar is typically taken twice a day, while Lexparo is typically taken once a day. Lexapro is considered a first-choice medication for anxiety. Buspar is typically only added to SSRIs for anxiety (or other first-choice medications) if anxiety symptoms aren’t fully controlled with an SSRI alone. Common Lexapro side effects include nausea, insomnia, and sexual problems. It can also lead to withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Buspar can cause dizziness and headaches. It isn’t known to cause withdrawal symptoms.

  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
    Buspirone
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
    Buspirone

  • Summary of Lexapro vs. Buspar

    Summary for SSRI
    Prescription only

    Escitalopram, also known by its brand name, Lexapro, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's a first-choice antidepressant to treat depression and anxiety in adults and children. The medication is available as a tablet and oral solution, in both brand and generic forms. A dose is typically taken by mouth once per day. Some common side effects include nausea, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and dizziness.

    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.

  • Indications of Lexapro vs. Buspar

    Indications for
    •Depression in people ages 12 years and older
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in people ages 7 years and older
    Indications for
    •Anxiety

  • Pros and Cons of Lexapro vs. Buspar

    Pros and Const for SSRI
    Pros
    •First-choice medication for anxiety and depression
    •Only need to take it once a day
    •Generally has fewer side effects compared to other antidepressants
    •Can be taken with or without food
    Cons
    •Can take up to 2 months before you feel the the full benefits
    •Risk of certain sexual problems
    •Can raise your risk for bleeds
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
    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

  • Common Side Effects of Lexapro vs. Buspar

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (24%)
    •Nausea (15-18%)
    •Ejaculation problems (9-14%)
    •Sleepiness (6-13%)
    •Trouble sleeping (9-12%)
    •Dry mouth (6-9%)
    •Diarrhea (8%)
    •Tiredness (5-8%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (12%)
    •Drowsiness (10%)
    •Nausea (8%)
    •Headache (6%)
    •Nervousness (5%)

  • Warnings of Lexapro vs. Buspar

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Stopping escitalopram (Lexapro) too suddenly
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Glaucoma
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Sexual problems
    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)

  • Prices with our coupons for Lexapro vs. Buspar

    Learn more about Escitalopram
    Learn more about Buspirone

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