Buspirone Pharmacology

Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication that has the potential of having some serotonin agonist activity.

Buspirone has a very high first-pass metabolism. This means that the body breaks much of the medication down prior to it getting into the systemic circulation.

Buspirone is broken down by CYP3A4, so concomitant use with inhibitors or inducers can alter its concentrations

Buspirone should not be used as needed as this medication takes a while to start to show benefit.

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Trazodone Pharmacology

Trazodone pharmacology is complex. It can inhibit serotonin reuptake, block histamine receptors, and possibly have alpha-blocking activity.

Side effects of trazodone include sedation, dizziness, and dry mouth. Rarely, priapism may occur. I’ve seen this nugget come up on pharmacology exams!

While trazodone is classified as antidepressant, it is often used to help manage insomnia.

Trazodone can possibly prolong the QT interval. Risk of other medications and patient specific parameters should be considered.

Trazodone concentrations can be increased with the use of CYP3A4 inhibitors and reduced with 3A4 inducers.

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