Question:

What is the mechanism of action of buspirone?

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Azapirone anxiolytic acting on a serotonin autoreceptor.
Updated On: Jun 23, 2026
  • 5-HT1A partial agonism
  • 5-HT1B antagonism
  • 5-HT1B partial agonism
  • 5-HT2C antagonism
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Buspirone is a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic used for generalised anxiety disorder. Unlike benzodiazepines it does not act on GABA receptors. Step 2: Its mechanism is partial agonism at the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor. The 5-HT1A receptor functions as a presynaptic autoreceptor that modulates serotonin release. Step 3: By acting as a partial agonist here, buspirone fine tunes serotonergic transmission, which produces its anxiolytic effect over a few weeks without sedation or dependence. Step 4: The other options (5-HT1B antagonism or partial agonism, 5-HT2C antagonism) do not describe buspirone, so they are incorrect. Other 5-HT1A partial agonists include isapirone and gepirone. Hence 5-HT1A partial agonism is correct.
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