BUSPIRONE

What is buspirone (Buspar)?

Buspirone is a medication used to treat anxiety. Although its exact mechanism is unknown, it is believed to act on the serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that aids in mood, sexual desire, sleep, digestion, wound healing, bone health, and blood clotting [1]. It is often referred to in psychology as the “happy” chemical. Dopamine is a “feel good” hormone. It affects memory, behavior, motivation, and mood [2]. In conditions like anxiety, the brain is dealing with an imbalance of chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. An anxiolytic, like buspirone, works by keeping serotonin and dopamine in the space where they can readily be available for bodily processes. 

What is the connection between buspirone and long-COVID?

In addition to affecting mood, serotonin also plays a role in viral inflammation. It can block certain viruses (like HIV-1) in the cell and decrease cytokine production, promoting the immune response [3]. In long-COVID, it is thought the body has an overresponse to COVID-19, resulting in a cytokine storm or heightened immune response. This immune response manifests as “brain fog,” decreased cognitive acuity, memory deficits, poor focus, anxiety, reduced ability to multitask, and reduced concentration [3]. As buspirone works to keep serotonin available for bodily processes, in theory, it may help decrease symptoms associated with long-COVID with its anti-inflammatory properties.

As of current, research is limited regarding the use of buspirone for long-COVID. With a labeled indication for anxiety, those suffering from long-COVID induced anxiety may see relief with the use of buspirone. However, if looking for treatment relief from long-COVID, it is unknown if it can affect the high levels of inflammation in the body from COVID-19. 

References:

¹https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22572-serotonin

²https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22581-dopamine

³https://www.medtextpublications.com/open-access/long-covid-is-there-a-role-for-antidepressants-1249.pdf