Buspirone is a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic that is not habit-forming and does not cause sedation, but it takes time to work and is less effective for acute anxiety.

Buspirone is a reasonable option in anxious patients for whom benzodiazepines are not appropriate. Don’t expect as robust a response, and make sure patients know it may take a week or two to kick in.

Many patients with substance use disorders experience significant anxiety and agitation.

Despite the lack of large randomized controlled data to support first-line use, buspirone may be used adjunctively in kids who exhibit partial response to first-line therapies for anxiety (SSRI, SNRI), without the sedation and abuse potential burden of benzodiazepines.

Anxiety is perhaps the most frequent symptom for which child psychiatrists are consulted.