Efficacy of buspirone in alcohol dependence: a review.
The five published controlled studies on the effects of buspirone in alcoholism treatment are reviewed. They have been conducted mostly in alcoholics with comorbid anxiety. Significant differences in favor of the medication were observed in several psychopathological measures (anxiety, depression, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity, and global psychopathology). In only two studies were alcohol craving and consumption found influenced. Metaanalysis showed positive effects of buspirone on treatment retention, as well as on anxiety. It can be concluded that the main effect of buspirone in the treatment of alcoholism is not on ethanol consumption per se, but on associated psychopathological symptoms. A favorable safety profile and a lack of interaction with alcohol make buspirone a useful pharmacological adjunct in the treatment of alcoholism.
Malec
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Douglas Hospital Research Center, Alcohol Research Program, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Malec
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Dongier
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D000437:Alcoholism / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D002065:Buspirone / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D015897:Comorbidity; D006801:Humans; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D010555:Personality Inventory; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D002065:Buspirone