Buspirone: chemistry, pharmacology, and behavior.

Recent neurochemical and behavioral observations with the nonbenzodiazepine anxiolytic buspirone raise several issues of importance to neuroscientists. These include: (1) the role of a GABA-benzodiazepine receptor-chloride ionophore complex in the actions of buspirone and other anxiolytics; (2) the involvement of dopaminergic pathways in mediating anxiety and/or anxiolytic actions; and (3) the existence of a common pre- or postreceptor "effector system" for buspirone and other antianxiety agents. These issues are critically discussed in light of recent findings.