Last reviewed · How we verify

Buspirone HCl

Par Pharmaceutical, Inc. · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Buspirone HCl is a 5-HT1A receptor agonist Small molecule drug developed by Par Pharmaceutical, Inc.. It is currently FDA-approved for Generalized anxiety disorder. Also known as: Buspar.

Buspirone acts as a serotonin 5-HT1A receptor agonist to reduce anxiety without the sedation or dependence associated with benzodiazepines.

Buspirone acts as a serotonin 5-HT1A receptor agonist to reduce anxiety without the sedation or dependence associated with benzodiazepines. Used for Generalized anxiety disorder.

At a glance

Generic nameBuspirone HCl
Also known asBuspar
SponsorPar Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Drug class5-HT1A receptor agonist
Target5-HT1A receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaPsychiatry/Neurology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Buspirone selectively binds to and activates serotonin 5-HT1A receptors in the brain, particularly in the raphe nuclei and limbic system, which modulates serotonergic neurotransmission and reduces anxiety symptoms. Unlike benzodiazepines, it does not enhance GABA inhibition, resulting in minimal sedation, muscle relaxation, or anticonvulsant effects, and carries a low potential for abuse or dependence.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

Frequently asked questions about Buspirone HCl

What is Buspirone HCl?

Buspirone HCl is a 5-HT1A receptor agonist drug developed by Par Pharmaceutical, Inc., indicated for Generalized anxiety disorder.

How does Buspirone HCl work?

Buspirone acts as a serotonin 5-HT1A receptor agonist to reduce anxiety without the sedation or dependence associated with benzodiazepines.

What is Buspirone HCl used for?

Buspirone HCl is indicated for Generalized anxiety disorder.

Who makes Buspirone HCl?

Buspirone HCl is developed and marketed by Par Pharmaceutical, Inc. (see full Par Pharmaceutical, Inc. pipeline at /company/par-pharmaceutical-inc).

Is Buspirone HCl also known as anything else?

Buspirone HCl is also known as Buspar.

What drug class is Buspirone HCl in?

Buspirone HCl belongs to the 5-HT1A receptor agonist class. See all 5-HT1A receptor agonist drugs at /class/5-ht1a-receptor-agonist.

What development phase is Buspirone HCl in?

Buspirone HCl is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of Buspirone HCl?

Common side effects of Buspirone HCl include Dizziness, Headache, Nervousness, Lightheadedness, Nausea.

What does Buspirone HCl target?

Buspirone HCl targets 5-HT1A receptor and is a 5-HT1A receptor agonist.

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing