Low-sedation potential of buspirone compared with alprazolam and lorazepam in the treatment of anxious patients: a double-blind study.

Buspirone was compared to alprazolam and lorazepam in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder in a 4-week, double-blind study of 60 patients. All three medications were effective and similar in producing significant reductions in anxiety as assessed by standardized anxiety rating scales and by global evaluations of patients by physicians. There were significant differences in drowsiness, lethargy, and/or fatigue: fewer patients in the buspirone group than in the alprazolam group (16% vs. 60%, respectively; p less than .01) or the lorazepam group (16% vs. 65%, respectively; p less than .0003) experienced these undesirable side effects. This demonstration of similar effectiveness and superior safety would favor buspirone in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.