A Rare Case of Buspirone-induced Dystonia

A BSTRACT Buspirone is an anxiolytic agent. The most common side effect reported with the use of buspirone is dizziness. Movement disorders associated with buspirone were rarely described. A 20-year-old female was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. She was started on buspirone, and the dose was progressively increased. Despite therapy, for 14 days, the patient did not report any improvement in symptoms, and the general practitioner increased the dosage to 10 mg three times a day. On day 28th of buspirone therapy, she reported progressive neck stiffness within one day of onset. On examination, right lateralization of the neck was seen. Laboratory tests, neuroimaging, and electroencephalogram were unremarkable. She was started on intravenous diphenhydramine. Within 2 hours, the symptoms improved. The subject retook the buspirone and developed the same symptoms. She was started on intravenous diphenhydramine, and symptomatic improvement was seen. Due to repeated instances of adverse drug events occurring, buspirone was discontinued. There are seven reports of dystonia secondary to buspirone in the literature. But, the present case of buspirone-induced dystonia is the first reported in a previously healthy patient. Clinicians should monitor motor symptoms when increased doses of buspirone are needed. In buspirone-induced dystonia, buspirone withdrawal and anticholinergic medications should be attempted.