Second generation anxiolytics
Buspirone (BuSpar): A weak agonist of 5-HT1A receptors, so no crossing or synergy with other CNS depressants
- Buspirone is also antidepressant
- No sedation, little amnesia or confusion
- Very slow development of main effect: several weeks tid.
- Useful for GAD and anxiety in older people.
- Postsynaptic inhibition of adenyl cyclase
- Presynaptic inhibition of 5-HT synthesis