Comparative Effects of Diazepam and Buspirone on Subjective Feelings, Psychological Tests and the EEG

Abstract

12 normal subjects were tested on a battery of tests both before and 1, 3 and 5 h after 10 mg diazepam, 10 and 20 mg buspirone hydrochloride and a placebo. The tests included self-ratings of mood and bodily symptoms, the electroencephalogram, reaction time, tapping, digit symbol substitution and the symbol copying test. Diazepam showed a clear profile of action, producing EEG changes, pronounced sedation and psychological impairment. Buspirone had less effect on the EEG and produced less cognitive impairment. Its sedative effects were similar to those of diazepam but it also produced some dysphoria in the higher dose.