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Health Guide / Stress and anxiety

Your guide to anxiety medications

felix gussone

Reviewed by Felix Gussone, MD, written by Health Guide Team

Last updated: Jun 03, 2021
7 min read

table of contents

  1. Types of anti-anxiety medications
  2. Do anxiety medications work?
  3. What exactly is anxiety?
  4. The different types of anxiety

Disclaimer

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Anxiety is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions. By some estimates, roughly 32% of Americans will develop an anxiety disorder at some point in their lifetimes (Garakani, 2020; NIMH, 2007).

There are many different ways to treat an anxiety disorder. These include psychotherapy and many relaxation techniques. Anxiety medications can also help, whether taken alone or used alongside another type of anxiety treatment (Chand, 2021). 

In this guide, you’ll find a list of common anti-anxiety medications. Keep in mind that not all of these drugs are appropriate for all forms of anxiety or for all people. Every brain is unique. A drug that helps one person with anxiety may not work the same way for you.  

Also, you may notice that many of these anti-anxiety drugs are also used to treat depression. This is because some of the same brain systems and neurochemicals that play a role in anxiety also seem to be involved in depression (Garakani, 2020).  

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Types of anti-anxiety medications

There are a few different types of medications used to treat anxiety. Here are the most common.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter (basically, a brain chemical) that seems to promote positive mood and emotions.

SSRIs block the brain’s nerve cells from absorbing serotonin, which is a process known as “reuptake.” By blocking this reuptake, it’s thought that the brain’s levels of serotonin get a boost. And there’s a lot of evidence that this helps relieve anxiety symptoms (NHS, 2018).

Some of the most common SSRIs are (Chand, 2021):

SSRIs are popular in part because they don’t mess with the activity of other brain chemicals. Like all drugs, they do have side effects. But these tend to be minor compared to many other anti-anxiety medications (Chu, 2021).

Some side-effects of SSRIs include (Chu, 2021):

  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Sleep problems
  • Weight changes
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Upset stomach

SSRIs don’t start to work immediately. It usually takes at least two weeks before you’ll feel any benefits and it might take up to six weeks until you feel the full effects of the drug (Taylor, 2006). However, some of the side effects can come on right away (Bandelow, 2017).

SSRIs are prescribed for all forms of anxiety and are considered a “first-line” treatment (Chand, 2021). How long you’re taking the drugs can vary.  A healthcare provider might recommend you take SSRIs for up to a year or two if they work well for you (Garakani, 2020; Bystritsky, 2021). 

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

Norepinephrine, like serotonin, is another brain chemical that seems to play a role in mood and anxiety. SNRIs block the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. And there’s evidence that these work well for some people with anxiety (Sheffler, 2021).

Some of the most common SNRIs are venlafaxine (Effexor XR; see Important Safety Information) and duloxetine (Cymbalta; see Important Safety Information) (Chand, 2021).

Side effects of these and other SNRI drugs include (Bandelow, 2017):

  • Jitteriness
  • Nausea
  • Restlessness
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Sweating
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Diarrhea

Like SSRIs, SNRIs don’t start to work immediately. While side-effects may show up right away, anxiety benefits tend to take at least a couple of weeks (Bandelow, 2017). Some research has shown that SNRIs work well for treatment lasting six months and longer (Rickels, 2010).

SNRIs are also considered first-line treatment—specifically for generalized anxiety disorders (Chand, 2021). But some of the side effects such as nausea and dry mouth may be more pronounced than those associated with SSRIs (Santarsieri, 2015).

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” have been a mainstay of anxiety treatment for decades. Along with SSRIs and SNRIs, they remain one of the most commonly prescribed classes of anti-anxiety drugs (Garakani, 2020).

Benzos can help reduce anxiety—often very quickly. They start to work in as little as 30 minutes, and they tend to reduce muscle tension and other symptoms of anxiety. For this reason, they’re popular as a short-term anxiety treatment or for people who are in the midst of a panic attack or other severe bout of anxiety (Chand, 2021).

Some common benzodiazepines include:

While benzodiazepines are popular and often effective, there’s some evidence that they’re more likely than other anti-anxiety drugs to lead to addiction or abuse. This is one of the reasons why benzos are not considered the go-to medication for anxiety anymore. Today, healthcare providers prefer to prescribe benzos in combination with other anti-anxiety drugs, like SSRIs (Garakani, 2020).

Other side-effects of benzos include (Vashchinkina, 2014):

  • Memory problems
  • Dizziness
  • Clumsiness or falls
  • Confusion
  • Sleepiness

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

Like SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants help increase the brain’s circulating levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. But they do this in slightly different ways than SNRIs (Garakani, 2020).

While there’s evidence that TCAs can help treat anxiety, these drugs have been around since the 1950s (Gillman, 2007). They tend to cause harsher side-effects than SSRIs, SNRIs Is and other, newer anti-anxiety medications. For that reason, medical providers don’t often prescribe them anymore (Garakani, 2020).

TCAs are not FDA approved for the treatment of most anxiety disorders, although there are some special cases when they may still be helpful—for example, when SSRIs or other drugs don’t work well (Garakani, 2020).

Side effects of these drugs include (Garakani, 2020):

  • Weight gain
  • Dry mouth
  • Sleepiness
  • Urinary problems
  • Irregular heartbeat

Beta-blockers

These drugs reduce tension, a racing heart, and the other physical symptoms of anxiety. Two common types are propranolol and atenolol (Chand, 2021).

Beta-blockers aren’t FDA-approved for the treatment of anxiety. But medical providers still prescribe beta-blockers in some cases. They’re especially common for people who have specific fears (phobias), such as a fear of public speaking or a fear of spending time in social situations (Chand, 2021).

These drugs work by binding to beta receptors that normally bind to epinephrine and other chemicals associated with increased nervous system activity. By blocking the action of these chemicals, the heart slows, muscles relax, and the nervous system mellows out (Farzam, 2021).

On the other hand, beta-blockers can cause side effects. These include (Farzam, 2021):

  • Low blood pressure
  • Fatigue or sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Sexual dysfunction

Along with anxiety, beta-blockers can help treat a range of medical conditions. This list includes heart disease, tremors, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, and many others. If a person has one or several of these conditions, as well as anxiety, their medical provider may be more likely to prescribe a beta-blocker (Farzam, 2021).

Other types of anti-anxiety medications

There are a few other drugs that healthcare providers occasionally prescribe for the treatment of anxiety. These include:

  • Buspirone (Buspar; see Important Safety Information), a mild tranquilizer sometimes used to treat generalized anxiety disorder. The effects are similar to those of benzodiazepines, but without the risk of dependence (Chand, 2021).
  • Antipsychotics, which are not FDA-approved for anxiety but are sometimes helpful for people with generalized anxiety disorder (Garakani, 2020).
  • Antihistamines, which may be safer than other drugs for kids, and can also help with insomnia (Garakani, 2020).

There are others. But the ones above are far and away the most common.

Do anxiety medications work?

For some people, yes. All of the types of medication mentioned above are backed by solid research. That said, not everyone with anxiety will respond to medication. In fact, about 1 in 3 people with anxiety don’t find durable relief in the form of a pill (Garakani, 2020).

For these people—and for many others with anxiety—the best treatment may involve other forms of therapy, including psychotherapy (Chand, 2021).

What exactly is anxiety?

Technically, it’s a mood state fueled by worry and fear. This worry or fear tends to be “future-oriented,” meaning it’s about something that may or may not happen—as opposed to something that is happening in the present.

But anxiety isn’t just a mood. It’s a complicated experience that also involves thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (Chand, 2021).

The common symptoms of anxiety can be broken down into three categories.

Cognitive symptoms

The first category involves cognitive symptoms. These include (Chand, 2021):

  • Worry
  • Fear of losing control
  • Fear of injury or death
  • Fear of “going crazy”
  • Fear of negative judgment from others
  • Poor concentration
  • A sense of unreality or detachment

Physical symptoms

The second category involves the body. These symptoms include (Chand 2021):

  • Racing heart
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating or sweaty palms
  • Muscle tension
  • Rapid breathing
  • Hot flashes
  • Nausea
  • Upset stomach
  • Weakness or unsteadiness

Behavioral symptoms

The final category includes behavioral symptoms. Some of these are (Chand, 2021):

  • Avoiding certain things or situations
  • Urge to escape or flee
  • Moving away from sources of fear or worry and toward safer situations
  • Seeking reassurance

The different types of anxiety

There are many different anxiety medications in part because there are many kinds of anxiety. All of them involve some form of fear or worry.

General anxiety disorder, for example, involves persistent, hard-to-control worry about any number of different concerns—school, work, family, etc. Meanwhile, social anxiety disorder involves a fear of being around other people who may cause you to feel judged, embarrassed, or otherwise uncomfortable (Chand, 2021).

If you feel like you may benefit from anxiety medication, your healthcare provider can help you figure out whether a drug can help—and which one is best for you.  

References

  1. Bandelow, B., Michaelis, S., & Wedekind, D. (2017). Treatment of anxiety disorders. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 19(2), 93–107. doi: 10.31887/DCNS.2017.19.2/bbandelow. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5573566/
  2. Bystritsky, A. (2021). Pharmacotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder in adults. In: UpToDate. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/pharmacotherapy-for-generalized-anxiety-disorder-in-adults#H303453001
  3. Chand, S. P., & Marwaha, R. (2021). Anxiety. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470361/
  4. Chu, A., & Wadhwa, R. (2021). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/
  5. Farzam, K., & Jan, A. (2021). Beta Blockers. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532906/
  6. Garakani, A., Murrough, J. W., Freire, R. C., Thom, R. P., Larkin, K., Buono, F. D., & Iosifescu, D. V. (2020). Pharmacotherapy of anxiety disorders: current and emerging treatment options. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 11, 595584. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.595584. Retrieved from https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.595584/full
  7. Gillman P. K. (2007). Tricyclic antidepressant pharmacology and therapeutic drug interactions updated. British Journal of Pharmacology, 151(6), 737–748. doi: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707253. Retrieved from https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1038/sj.bjp.0707253
  8. National Health Services (NHS). (2018) Overview: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). National Health Service (UK). Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/medicines-and-psychiatry/ssri-antidepressants/overview/
  9. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (n.d.). Any anxiety disorder. Retrieved June 1, 2021 from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-anxiety-disorder
  10. Rickels, K., Etemad, B., Khalid-Khan, S., Lohoff, F. W., Rynn, M. A., & Gallop, R. J. (2010). Time to relapse after 6 and 12 months’ treatment of generalized anxiety disorder with venlafaxine extended release. Archives of General Psychiatry, 67(12), doi: 10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2010.170. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21135327/
  11. Santarsieri, D., & Schwartz, T. L. (2015). Antidepressant efficacy and side-effect burden: a quick guide for clinicians. Drugs in Context, 4, 212290. doi: 10.7573/dic.212290. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4630974/
  12. Sheffler, Z. M., & Abdijadid, S. (2021). Antidepressants. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538182/
  13. Taylor, M. J., Freemantle, N., Geddes, J. R., & Bhagwagar, Z. (2006). Early onset of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant action: systematic review and meta-analysis. Archives of General Psychiatry, 63(11), 1217–1223. doi: 10.1001/archpsyc.63.11.1217. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17088502/
  14. Vashchinkina, E., Panhelainen, A., Aitta-Aho, T., & Korpi, E. R. (2014). GABAA receptor drugs and neuronal plasticity in reward and aversion: focus on the ventral tegmental area. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 5, 256. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00256. Retrieved from https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2014.00256/full
felix gussone
Felix Gussone, MD

Felix Gussone is a physician, health journalist and a Manager, Medical Content & Education at Ro.

Related articles

Important Safety Information for Fluoxetine

Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. In short-term studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults under age 24. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk in patients 65 and older.

Patients of all ages being treated with antidepressants should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially early during antidepressant treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down. Families and caregivers of patients should look for the emergence of symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt.

Call your healthcare provider right away or 911 in an an emergency if you observe any of the following behaviors, especially if they are new, worse, unusual, or worry you: emergence of suicidality, worsening of depression, emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, inability to sit still or restlessness, racing thoughts that you can’t fully control, or becoming easily distracted.

What is the FDA-approved use of fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

Who should not use fluoxetine?

Do not use fluoxetine if:

  • You are taking a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Emsam), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), linezolid, or intravenous methylene blue. MAOIs may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
  • You are taking a medication called pimozide or thioridazine. Taking these medications with fluoxetine can increase the risk of prolonged QT interval, which is a potentially dangerous change to the electrical signals that make your heart beat.

How should I take fluoxetine?

You can take fluoxetine with or without food. 

You should take fluoxetine exactly as prescribed, and continue to take fluoxetine as prescribed even after your symptoms improve. You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking fluoxetine without discussing with your provider first. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abruptly stopping is recommended whenever possible.

If your symptoms are not improving or you have any questions about changing or stopping medication, reach out to your Ro-affiliated provider for guidance.

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using fluoxetine?

  • Fluoxetine has many drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. Some medications to watch out for include:
    • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including the antibiotic linezolid (Zyvox) and intravenous methylene blue (rare)
    • NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
    • Aspirin
    • Blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin)
    • Migraine medications called triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex)
    • Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and alprazolam
    • Other or SSRIs or SNRIs, such as sertraline (Zoloft)
    • Tamoxifen
    • St. John’s Wort
  • It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:
    • Suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide
    • Family history of Bipolar Disorder or family history of suicide
    • Seizures
    • Irregular heartbeat or heart issues
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Glaucoma or eye problems
    • Diabetes
  • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. SSRI use, particularly later in pregnancy, may increase risk of complications in the newborn. You should discuss with your provider if fluoxetine should be used during pregnancy. There have been reports of fluoxetine passing into breast milk. Talk to your provider about the best way to feed your baby while taking fluoxetine.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking fluoxetine?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects are rare, but can occur with fluoxetine. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Serotonin Syndrome: Serotonin syndrome is an uncommon, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when taking too much of an SSRI or SNRI at once or when fluoxetine is taken along with other drugs that increase the activity of serotonin in the central nervous system. These medications may include MAOIs, triptans (a class of drugs used to treat migraines), tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort. Monitor for symptoms of elevated body temperature, flushing, sweating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, agitation, and a racing heartbeat.
  • Allergic Reactions and Rash: Tell your provider if you develop a rash or hives. Discontinue use of fluoxetine and seek emergency care immediately if you have a severe allergic reaction. Signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include swelling of the face, eyes, or mouth, or having trouble breathing. 
  • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Especially at the beginning of treatment, monitor for changes in behavior such as an unusually elevated mood, feeling unusually irritable, a big increase in energy, being more talkative than usual, racing thoughts, or engaging in risky behaviors. These changes in behavior could be signs of undiagnosed Bipolar Disorder.
  • Abnormal Bleeding: Tell your provider if you experience any increased or unusual bruising, bleeding, or nose bleed. Fluoxetine may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), aspirin, or blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin).
  • QT Prolongation: Tell your provider right away if you experience fast, slow, or irregular heart rate, shortness of breath, fainting, or dizziness, which may indicate serious cardiac arrhythmia.
  • Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Fluoxetine may impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills. Avoid driving a car or operating hazardous machinery until you know that your performance is not affected. Do not drink alcohol while you take fluoxetine.
  • Eye Effects: In rare instances, antidepressants may cause a certain type of eye problem called acute angle-closure glaucoma. Monitor for eye pain, changes in your vision, or swelling or redness in or around the eye.
  • Low Sodium in the Blood (Hyponatremia): Elderly people may be at greater risk for this condition. Symptoms may include headache, weakness or feeling unsteady, confusion, problems concentrating or thinking, and memory problems.

What are the most common side effects of fluoxetine?

  • Nausea, diarrhea
  • Lack of appetite, weight loss
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Sexual problems, including decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, or trouble ejaculating
  • Change in sleep habits, including insomnia or increased sleepiness
  • Nervousness, anxiety
  • Lack of energy, or feeling generally weak
  • Tremor
  • Sweating

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information. 

Important Safety Information for Sertraline

Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. In short-term studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults under age 24. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk in patients 65 and older.

Patients of all ages being treated with antidepressants should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially early during antidepressant treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down. Families and caregivers of patients should look for the emergence of symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt.

Call your healthcare provider right away or 911 in an an emergency if you observe any of the following behaviors, especially if they are new, worse, unusual, or worry you: emergence of suicidality, worsening of depression, emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, inability to sit still or restlessness, racing thoughts that you can’t fully control, or becoming easily distracted. 

What is the FDA-approved use of sertraline?

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

Who should not use sertraline?

Do not use sertraline if:

  • You are taking a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Emsam), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), linezolid, or intravenous methylene blue. MAOIs may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
  • You are taking a medication called pimozide. Taking this medication with sertraline can increase the risk of prolonged QT interval, which is a potentially dangerous change to the electrical signals that make your heart beat.
  • You have a known allergic reaction to sertraline.

How should I take sertraline?

You can take sertraline with or without food. 

You should take sertraline exactly as prescribed, and continue to take sertraline as prescribed even after your symptoms improve. You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking sertraline without discussing with your provider first. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abruptly stopping is recommended whenever possible.

If your symptoms are not improving or you have any questions about changing or stopping medication, reach out to your Ro-affiliated provider for guidance.

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using sertraline?

  • Sertraline has many drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. Some medications to watch out for include:
    • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including the antibiotic linezolid (Zyvox) and intravenous methylene blue (rare)
    • NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
    • Aspirin
    • Blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin)
    • Migraine medications called triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex)
    • Other SSRIs or SNRIs, such as fluoxetine (Prozac)
    • St. John’s Wort
  • It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:
    • Suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Family history of Bipolar Disorder or family history of suicide
    • Liver problems
    • Irregular heartbeat or heart problems
    • Stroke
    • High blood pressure
    • Seizures
    • Glaucoma or eye problems
  • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. SSRI use, particularly later in pregnancy, may increase risk of complications in the newborn. You should discuss with your provider if sertraline should be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking sertraline?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects are rare, but can occur with sertraline. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Serotonin Syndrome: Serotonin syndrome is an uncommon, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when taking too much of an SSRI or SNRI at once or when sertraline is taken along with other drugs that increase the activity of serotonin in the central nervous system. These medications may include MAOIs, triptans (a class of drugs used to treat migraines), tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort. Monitor for symptoms of elevated body temperature, flushing, sweating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, agitation, and a racing heartbeat.
  • Increased risk of bleeding: Tell your provider if you experience any increased or unusual bruising, bleeding, or nose bleed. Sertraline may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), aspirin, or blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin).
  • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Especially at the beginning of treatment, monitor for changes in behavior such as an unusually elevated mood, feeling unusually irritable, a big increase in energy, being more talkative than usual, racing thoughts, or engaging in risky behaviors. These changes in behavior could be signs of undiagnosed Bipolar Disorder.
  • Eye Effects: In rare instances, antidepressants may cause a certain type of eye problem called acute angle-closure glaucoma. Monitor for eye pain, changes in your vision, or swelling or redness in or around the eye.
  • Low Sodium in the Blood (Hyponatremia): Elderly people may be at greater risk for this condition. Symptoms may include headache, weakness or feeling unsteady, confusion, problems concentrating or thinking, and memory problems.
  • QT Prolongation: Tell your provider right away if you experience fast, slow, or irregular heart rate, shortness of breath, fainting, or dizziness, which may indicate serious cardiac arrhythmia.
  • Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Fluoxetine may impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills. Avoid driving a car or operating hazardous machinery until you know that your performance is not affected. Do not drink alcohol while you take sertraline.

What are the most common side effects of sertraline?

  • Nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or indigestion
  • Increased sweating
  • Tremor or shaking
  • Agitation
  • Change in sleep habits including increased sleepiness or insomnia
  • Sexual problems including abnormal ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or decreased sex drive
  • Feeling tired or fatigued
  • Anxiety

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information. 

Important Safety Information for Escitalopram

Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. In short-term studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults under age 24. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk in patients 65 and older.

Patients of all ages being treated with antidepressants should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially early during antidepressant treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down. Families and caregivers of patients should look for the emergence of symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt.

Call your healthcare provider right away or 911 in an an emergency if you observe any of the following behaviors, especially if they are new, worse, unusual, or worry you: emergence of suicidality, worsening of depression, emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, inability to sit still or restlessness, racing thoughts that you can’t fully control, or becoming easily distracted.

What are the FDA-approved uses of escitalopram?

Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for:

  • Acute and Maintenance Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) 
  • Acute Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Who should not use escitalopram?

Do not use escitalopram if:

  • You are taking a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Emsam), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), linezolid, or intravenous methylene blue. MAOIs may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
  • You are taking a medication called pimozide. Taking this medication with escitalopram can increase the risk of prolonged QT interval, which is a potentially dangerous change to the electrical signals that make your heart beat.
  • You have a known allergic reaction to escitalopram.

How should I take escitalopram?

You can take escitalopram with or without food.

You should take escitalopram exactly as prescribed, and continue to take escitalopram as prescribed even after your symptoms improve. You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking escitalopram without discussing with your provider first. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abruptly stopping is recommended whenever possible.

If your symptoms are not improving or you have any questions about changing or stopping medication, reach out to your Ro-affiliated provider for guidance.

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using escitalopram?

  • Escitalopram has many drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. Some medications to watch out for include:
    • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including the antibiotic linezolid (Zyvox) and intravenous methylene blue (rare)
    • NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
    • Aspirin
    • Blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin)
    • Migraine medications called triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex)
    • Other antidepressants, including SSRIs or SNRIs such as sertraline (Zoloft) or citalopram (Celexa)
    • St. John’s Wort
  • It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:
    • Suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Family history of Bipolar Disorder or family history of suicide
    • Seizures
    • Heart problems
    • Glaucoma or eye problems
    • Liver problems
  • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. SSRI use, particularly later in pregnancy, may increase risk of complications in the newborn. You should discuss with your provider if escitalopram should be used during pregnancy. There have been reports of escitalopram passing into breast milk. Talk to your provider about the best way to feed your baby while taking escitalopram.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking escitalopram?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects are rare, but can occur with escitalopram. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Serotonin Syndrome: Serotonin syndrome is an uncommon, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when taking too much of an SSRI or SNRI at once or when escitalopram is taken along with other drugs that increase the activity of serotonin in the central nervous system. These medications may include MAOIs, triptans (a class of drugs used to treat migraines), tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort. Monitor for symptoms of elevated body temperature, flushing, sweating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, agitation, and a racing heartbeat.
  • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Especially at the beginning of treatment, monitor for changes in behavior such as an unusually elevated mood, feeling unusually irritable, a big increase in energy, being more talkative than usual, racing thoughts, or engaging in risky behaviors. These changes in behavior could be signs of undiagnosed Bipolar Disorder.
  • Low Sodium in the Blood (Hyponatremia): Elderly people may be at greater risk for this condition. Symptoms may include headache, weakness or feeling unsteady, confusion, problems concentrating or thinking, and memory problems.
  • Abnormal Bleeding: Tell your provider if you experience any increased or unusual bruising, bleeding, or nose bleed. Escitalopram may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), aspirin, or blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin).
  • Cognitive and Motor Impairment: escitalopram may impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills. Avoid driving a car or operating hazardous machinery until you know that your performance is not affected. Do not drink alcohol while taking escitalopram.
  • Eye Effects: In rare instances, antidepressants may cause a certain type of eye problem called acute angle-closure glaucoma. Monitor for eye pain, changes in your vision, or swelling or redness in or around the eye.

What are the most common side effects of escitalopram?

  • Insomnia
  • Nausea, diarrhea
  • Increased sweating
  • Fatigue and drowsiness
  • Difficulty sleeping, insomnia
  • Headache
  • Decreased libido
  • Difficulty reaching orgasm, or abnormal ejaculation

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information.

Important Safety Information for Venlafaxine Extended-Release

Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. In short-term studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults under age 24. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk in patients 65 and older.

Patients of all ages being treated with antidepressants should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially early during antidepressant treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down. Families and caregivers of patients should look for the emergence of symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt.

Call your healthcare provider right away or 911 in an an emergency if you observe any of the following behaviors, especially if they are new, worse, unusual, or worry you: emergence of suicidality, worsening of depression, emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, inability to sit still or restlessness, racing thoughts that you can’t fully control, or becoming easily distracted.

What are the FDA-approved uses of venlafaxine extended-release?

Venlafaxine extended-release is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) for the treatment of:

  • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Who should not use venlafaxine extended-release?

Do not use venlafaxine extended-release if:

  • You are taking a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Emsam), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), linezolid, or intravenous methylene blue. MAOIs may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
  • You have a known allergic reaction to venlafaxine hydrochloride or desvenlafaxine succinate.

How should I take venlafaxine extended-release?

You should take venlafaxine extended-release with food.

You should take venlafaxine extended-release exactly as prescribed, and continue to take venlafaxine extended-release as prescribed even after your symptoms improve. You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking venlafaxine extended-release without discussing with your provider first. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abruptly stopping is recommended whenever possible.

If your symptoms are not improving or you have any questions about changing or stopping medication, reach out to your Ro-affiliated provider for guidance.

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using venlafaxine extended-release?

  • Venlafaxine extended-release has many drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. Some medications to watch out for include:
    • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
    • Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
    • NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
    • Aspirin
    • Blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin)
    • Migraine medications called triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex)
    • Other antidepressants, including SSRIs or SNRIs such as sertraline (Zoloft)
    • St. John’s Wort
  • It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:
    • Suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Family history of Bipolar Disorder or family history of suicide
    • Seizures
    • High blood pressure
    • High cholesterol
    • Heart problems
  • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. SSRI or SNRI use, particularly later in pregnancy, may increase risk of complications in the newborn. You should discuss with your provider if venlafaxine extended-release should be used during pregnancy. Some venlafaxine extended-release may pass into breast milk. Talk to your provider about the best way to feed your baby while taking venlafaxine extended-release.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking venlafaxine extended-release?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects are rare, but can occur with venlafaxine extended-release. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Serotonin Syndrome: Serotonin syndrome is an uncommon, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when taking too much of an SSRI or SNRI at once or when venlafaxine extended-release is taken along with other drugs that increase the activity of serotonin in the central nervous system. These medications may include MAOIs, triptans (a class of drugs used to treat migraines), tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort. Monitor for symptoms of elevated body temperature, flushing, sweating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, agitation, and a racing heartbeat.
  • Increases in blood pressure: Your blood pressure should be well controlled prior to starting treatment. Your provider will monitor your blood pressure regularly. Consider monitoring your blood pressure at home.
  • Abnormal Bleeding: Tell your provider if you experience any increased or unusual bruising, bleeding, or nose bleed. Venlafaxine extended-release may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), aspirin, warfarin, and other anticoagulants.
  • Eye Effects: In rare instances, antidepressants may cause a certain type of eye problem called acute angle-closure glaucoma. Monitor for eye pain, changes in your vision, or swelling or redness in or around the eye.
  • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Especially at the beginning of treatment, monitor for changes in behavior such as an unusually elevated mood, feeling unusually irritable, a big increase in energy, being more talkative than usual, racing thoughts, or engaging in risky behaviors. These changes in behavior could be signs of undiagnosed Bipolar Disorder.
  • Low Sodium in the Blood (Hyponatremia): Elderly people may be at greater risk for this condition. Symptoms may include headache, weakness or feeling unsteady, confusion, problems concentrating or thinking, and memory problems.
  • Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Venlafaxine extended-release may impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills. Avoid driving a car or operating hazardous machinery until you know that your performance is not affected. Do not drink alcohol while you take venlafaxine extended-release.
  • Lung Disease and Inflammation (Pneumonitis): Venlafaxine extended-release may cause rare lung problems. Monitor for symptoms such as worsening shortness of breath, cough, or chest discomfort.

What are the most common side effects of venlafaxine extended-release?

  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Change in sleep habits including increased sleepiness or insomnia
  • Dry mouth
  • Sweating
  • Sexual problems including abnormal ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or decreased sex drive
  • Decreased appetite, weight loss
  • Constipation
  • Abnormal dreams
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness
  • Tremor

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information. 

Important Safety Information for Duloxetine

Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. In short-term studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults under age 24. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk in patients 65 and older.

Patients of all ages being treated with antidepressants should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially early during antidepressant treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down. Families and caregivers of patients should look for the emergence of symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt.

Call your healthcare provider right away or 911 in an an emergency if you observe any of the following behaviors, especially if they are new, worse, unusual, or worry you: emergence of suicidality, worsening of depression, emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, inability to sit still or restlessness, racing thoughts that you can’t fully control, or becoming easily distracted.

What are the FDA-approved uses of duloxetine?

Duloxetine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for:

  • Acute and Maintenance Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Who should not use duloxetine?

Do not use duloxetine if:

  • You are taking a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Emsam), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), linezolid, or intravenous methylene blue. Taking an MAOI at the same time as duloxetine may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

How should I take duloxetine?

You can take duloxetine with or without food.

You should take duloxetine exactly as prescribed, and continue to take duloxetine as prescribed even after your symptoms improve. You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking duloxetine without discussing with your provider first. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abruptly stopping is recommended whenever possible.

If your symptoms are not improving or you have any questions about changing or stopping medication, reach out to your Ro-affiliated provider for guidance.

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using duloxetine?

  • Duloxetine has many drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. Some medications to watch out for include:
    • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
    • NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
    • Aspirin
    • Blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin)
    • Migraine medications called triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex)
    • Other antidepressants, including SSRIs or SNRIs such as sertraline (Zoloft) or citalopram (Celexa)
    • St. John’s Wort
  • It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:
    • Suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Family history of Bipolar Disorder or family history of suicide
    • Liver problems
    • Heavy alcohol use
    • Kidney problems
    • Seizures
    • Heart problems
    • Glaucoma or eye problems
    • Diabetes
  • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. SSRI use, particularly later in pregnancy, may increase risk of complications in the newborn. Use of duloxetine during the month before delivery may lead to an increased risk for postpartum hemorrhage. You should discuss with your provider if duloxetine should be used during pregnancy. There have been reports of duloxetine passing into breast milk. Talk to your provider about the best way to feed your baby while taking duloxetine.
    • There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors the pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to duloxetine during pregnancy. To enroll, contact the Cymbalta (duloxetine) Pregnancy Registry at 1-866-814-6975 or https://lillypregnancyregistry.com/ 

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking duloxetine?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects are rare, but can occur with duloxetine. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Liver Failure: Severe liver problems, sometimes fatal, have been reported with duloxetine. Talk to your provider if you develop itching, right upper belly pain, dark urine, or yellow skin/eyes, which may be signs of liver problems. Heavy alcohol consumption may be associated with severe liver injury.
  • Decrease in blood pressure when standing up, falls, and fainting: Monitor especially during the beginning of treatment and with any dose increases. Your provider may consider lowering your dosage.
  • Serotonin Syndrome: Serotonin syndrome is an uncommon, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when taking too much of an SSRI or SNRI at once or when duloxetine is taken along with other drugs that increase the activity of serotonin in the central nervous system. These medications may include MAOIs, triptans (a class of drugs used to treat migraines), tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort. Monitor for symptoms of elevated body temperature, flushing, sweating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, agitation, and a racing heartbeat.
  • Abnormal Bleeding: Tell your provider if you experience any increased or unusual bruising, bleeding, or nose bleed. Duloxetine may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), aspirin, and warfarin. A post-marketing study showed a higher incidence of postpartum hemorrhage in mothers taking duloxetine.
  • Severe Skin Reactions: These skin reactions may need to be treated in a hospital and may be life-threatening. Call your provider right away or get emergency help if you have skin blisters, peeling rash, sores in your mouth, hives, or any other allergic reactions.
  • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Especially at the beginning of treatment, monitor for changes in behavior such as an unusually elevated mood, feeling unusually irritable, a big increase in energy, being more talkative than usual, racing thoughts, or engaging in risky behaviors. These changes in behavior could be signs of undiagnosed Bipolar Disorder.
  • Eye Effects: In rare instances, antidepressants may cause a certain type of eye problem called acute angle-closure glaucoma. Monitor for eye pain, changes in your vision, or swelling or redness in or around the eye.
  • Low Sodium in the Blood (Hyponatremia): Elderly people may be at greater risk for this condition. Symptoms may include headache, weakness or feeling unsteady, confusion, problems concentrating or thinking, and memory problems.

What are the most common side effects of duloxetine?

  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Dry mouth
  • Change in sleep habits including increased sleepiness or insomnia
  • Constipation, diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite, weight loss
  • Increased sweating
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Agitation
  • Headache
  • Sexual problems including abnormal ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or decreased sex drive

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information. 

Important Safety Information for Buspirone

What is the FDA-approved use of buspirone?

Buspirone is used for the management of generalized anxiety disorder or the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety.

Who should not use buspirone?

Do not use buspirone if:

  • You are taking a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Examples of MAOIs include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Emsam), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), the antibiotic linezolid (Zyvox), or intravenous methylene blue. If you take buspirone at the same time as an MAOI, there is an increased risk of serotonin syndrome and high blood pressure.
  • You have a known allergic reaction to buspirone.

How should I take buspirone?

You can take buspirone with or without food. 

You should take buspirone exactly as prescribed, and continue to take buspirone as prescribed even after your symptoms improve. You should not change your dosing regimen or stop taking buspirone without discussing with your provider first. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abruptly stopping is recommended whenever possible.

If your symptoms are not improving or you have any questions about changing or stopping medication, reach out to your Ro-affiliated provider for guidance.

What should I tell my Ro-affiliated provider before using buspirone?

  • Buspirone has many drug interactions. It’s important to tell your Ro-affiliated provider all of the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal and dietary supplements. Some medications to watch out for include:
    • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including the antibiotic linezolid (Zyvox) and intravenous methylene blue (rare)
    • Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium)
    • SSRIs or SNRIs, such as sertraline (Zoloft)
    • Migraine medications called triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex)
    • St. John’s Wort
  • It’s important to share your entire medical history with your provider. In particular, tell your provider if you have a past history of:
    • Depression
    • Suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Family history of Bipolar Disorder or family history of suicide
    • Liver problems
    • Kidney problems
    • Parkinson’s Disease
    • High blood pressure
  • Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. You should discuss with your provider if buspirone should be used during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Withholding or providing inaccurate information about your health and medical history in order to obtain treatment may result in harm, including, in some cases, death.

What are the most serious side effects that I or a caregiver should monitor for when taking buspirone?

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

These serious side effects are rare, but can occur with buspirone. You or a caregiver should carefully monitor for these side effects, especially in the beginning of treatment and with dose changes.

  • Serotonin Syndrome: Serotonin syndrome is an uncommon, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when taking too much of a drug that increases the activity of serotonin in the central nervous system. These medications may include MAOIs, triptans (a class of drugs used to treat migraines), tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, tryptophan, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort. Monitor for symptoms of elevated body temperature, flushing, sweating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, agitation, and a racing heartbeat.
  • Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Buspirone may impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills. Avoid driving a car or operating hazardous machinery until you know that your performance is not affected. You should avoid alcohol while taking buspirone.
  • Neurologic effects: There have been rare reports of impaired neurologic function with use of buspirone. Symptoms may resemble symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, such as restlessness, repetitive movements, inability to sit still, and involuntary movements (tardive dyskinesia). Tell your provider if you are experiencing these symptoms.

What are the most common side effects of buspirone?

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Nervousness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Excitement, jitteriness

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription products to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not comprehensive. Please see the full Prescribing Information for complete safety information.