When it comes to managing anxiety, two medications that often come up are buspirone and Xanax. While both are prescribed to reduce anxiety, they work in very different ways, come with unique risks, and are used for different types of anxiety symptoms. If you’re trying to understand which one may be a better fit—or you’re concerned about safety and long-term effects—this guide breaks down the key differences.
What Is Buspirone?
Buspirone (BuSpar) is an anti-anxiety medication belonging to a class of anxiolytic drugs. It works by affecting certain brain chemicals that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety. BuSpar helps relieve symptoms of anxiety, such as fear, tension, irritability, and dizziness. It can also help reduce physical symptoms such as sweating and rapid heartbeat.
Thankfully, the risk of dependence on BuSpar is relatively low, especially compared to Xanax. Doctors can use this medication as a safe way to control anxiety symptoms.
How Does Buspirone Work?
Buspirone is a non-benzodiazepine that primarily affects serotonin receptors. It works slowly, gradually adjusting the brain’s chemical balance to relieve chronic anxiety. It’s not sedating and doesn’t cause dependency, making it a good long-term option.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax (alprazolam) is a prescription drug used to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines which work by slowing down the central nervous system. Xanax helps reduce feelings of anxiousness or fear associated with certain conditions such as panic disorder or social phobia.
How Does Xanax Work?
Xanax is a benzodiazepine that works by increasing the effects of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter. It acts quickly—often within an hour—and is more commonly prescribed for short-term or severe anxiety episodes.
The Differences Between Buspirone vs. Xanax
The primary difference between buspirone and Xanax lies in how they work on the body’s chemistry. While buspar works by affecting certain brain chemicals associated with anxiety, Xanax works by slowing down the central nervous system which can help reduce feelings of anxiousness or fear associated with certain conditions like panic disorder or social phobia. BuSpar is usually prescribed for long-term use, while Xanax is usually prescribed for short-term use due to its addictive potential when taken in higher doses over time.
Comparing Buspirone and Xanax
| Feature | Buspirone | Xanax |
|---|---|---|
| Type of drug | Non-benzodiazepine | Benzodiazepine |
| Onset of action | Takes 2–4 weeks to fully work | Works within 30–60 minutes |
| Risk of dependency | Low | High |
| Suitable for long-term use? | Yes | Generally not recommended |
| Sedation | Minimal | Can cause drowsiness or sedation |
| Withdrawal symptoms | Rare | Common and potentially dangerous |
| Controlled substance | No | Yes |
Understanding Their Addiction Potential
One of the biggest differences between these two medications is their addiction potential. Because Xanax works quickly and produces a calming effect, it can become habit-forming. Many people start using it as prescribed and find themselves dependent before they realize it.
With regular use, tolerance builds—and that means higher doses are needed to get the same effect. That increases the risk of overdose and serious withdrawal symptoms. In contrast, buspirone doesn’t produce a “high,” which makes it far less likely to be misused.
The Benefits of Xanax Addiction Treatment
Xanax addiction treatment can be beneficial in helping people who have become dependent on this drug break their addictive cycle and regain control over their lives. Treatment typically includes counseling to help individuals identify triggers that lead them to abuse Xanax, as well as lifestyle changes that can help them manage their addictive behaviors more effectively in daily life situations going forward.
Xanax Addiction Services at Northpoint Recovery
Northpoint Recovery offers inpatient and outpatient services for those struggling with Xanax addiction, including:
- Individual counseling sessions – Our experienced clinicians use evidence-based techniques to help individuals identify triggers and develop effective coping strategies.
- Group therapy sessions – In group therapy, individuals can benefit from sharing their stories and experiences with each other.
- Family counseling sessions – We offer family counseling to provide support and guidance to both the individual and their loved ones.
- Dual diagnosis treatment – We understand that addiction can often be linked to underlying mental health issues, so we provide dual diagnosis treatment for those who may also struggle with a co-occurring disorder.
- Relapse prevention planning – We help individuals create a plan to stay on track with their recovery and prevent relapse.
- Medical intervention services – We offer medical intervention services to help individuals manage their physical and emotional symptoms related to addiction.
Need Help Navigating Medication or Anxiety Treatment?
At Northpoint Recovery, we help people understand the root of their anxiety and build sustainable paths to recovery—especially if substance use has also become part of the picture. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about next steps, we’re here to support you with evidence-based care and real solutions.
Contact us today to learn more about our addiction treatment programs or to speak with an admissions specialist. You don’t have to figure it out alone.