Posted by Frankie on March 7, 2002, at 20:47:05
In reply to Re: Buspar reduces serotonin, posted by Lorraine on March 6, 2002, at 19:46:45
> According to this site, the method of action of Buspar is believed to be that it reduces serotonin.
>
> http://www.buspar.com
>
> Lorraine
Lorraine,Both of you are correct. Buspar does lower serotonin overabundance in the brain. But, this could be a good thing, in augmentation with an SSRI. You see, the SSRI's all elevate, or block the uptake of serotonin, enabling it to remain in the part of the brain where it is most active, and does the most good. And, supposedly, GAD (generalized anxiety disorder), or the series of mind racing thoughts day in and day out, is due to an overproduction of serotonin. So, in reality, Buspar will work over time to slow the racing mind. However, it also has a weak affinity for dopamine also. It brings it up a bit. So, it is possible to actually get jittery from it. Just until you adjust. It is a unique medicine. It is very expensive if you were to pay full price for it. I believe that it is one of the most expensive medications out there period! So, it is not worthless. It's actions are a mystery to most, including me, and most professionals. But, I encourage you to stay on it, especially if you have GAD. The dose is better low though, because many that take a high dose get a bit of hostility from it. I think it is the combination of the lowering of the S1 serotonin receptor, plus the elevation of a certain dopamine receptor. Good luck.
Frankie.
poster:Frankie
thread:95230
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020307/msgs/96954.html