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Buspirone acts by different pharmacological pathways to the benzodiazepines, and does not present the same problems with dependence.
	Buspirone is as effective as the benzodiazepines for treating generalised anxiety disorder.
	Usual dose is 15-30 mg per day.
	Possible side effects (10% or fewer patients) are dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, headache, nervousness, fatigue and insomnia.
	Onset of action is gradual, with clinical improvement within 1-2 weeks increasing up to 6 weeks.
	Drug interactions are few, although the combination with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor may lead to serotonergic syndrome or worsening of anxiety symptoms. Buspirone should not be administered with monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

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