If you will be using buspirone regularly for a long time, your doctor should check your progress at regular visits to make sure the medicine does not cause unwanted effects.

Buspirone may cause some people to become dizzy, lightheaded, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to BUSPAR before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert.

If you think you or someone else may have taken an overdose of buspirone, get emergency help at once. Some symptoms of an overdose are dizziness or lightheadedness; severe drowsiness or loss of consciousness; stomach upset, including nausea or vomiting; or very small pupils of the eyes.

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• Rare
  • Chest pain;  confusion;  fast or pounding heartbeat;  fever;  incoordination;  mental depression;  muscle weakness;  numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in hands or feet;  skin rash or hives;  stiffness of arms or legs;  sore throat;  uncontrolled movements of the body 
  
  

• Symptoms of overdose--may be more severe than side effects seen at regular doses or several may occur together
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness;  drowsiness (severe) or loss of consciousness;  stomach upset, including nausea or vomiting;  very small pupils of the eyes 
  
  

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

• More common
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when getting up from a sitting or lying position;  headache;  nausea;  restlessness, nervousness, or unusual excitement 
  
  

• Less common or rare
  • Blurred vision;  clamminess or sweating ;  decreased concentration;  diarrhea;  drowsiness (more common with doses of more than 20 mg per day);  dryness of mouth;  muscle pain, spasms, cramps, or stiffness;  ringing in the ears;  trouble in sleeping, nightmares, or vivid dreams;  unusual tiredness or weakness 
  
  

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.