Assessing the potential for buspirone dependence or abuse and effects of its withdrawal.

Benzodiazepine anxiolytics are known to pose risks associated with drug dependence, abuse, and withdrawal symptoms. Recently, a new antianxiety agent, buspirone, was introduced in the United States. Buspirone appears to lack abuse liability and does not lead to drug dependence or withdrawal symptoms. This article reviews the results of animal and clinical studies in which the potential for buspirone dependence or abuse and the effects of its withdrawal were assessed.