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Smoking cessation is typically complicated by symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, which include anxiety, continued craving for tobacco, difficulty concentrating, and increased appetite. Previous clinical trials have indicated that buspirone may relieve some of these symptoms. This prospective double-blind study evaluated buspirone in 54 heavy smokers who attempted abrupt cessation, with disappointing results.
The subjects had averaged 33 cigarettes a day for 24 years. Three weeks before cessation, they were randomized to receive either 30 mg of buspirone or placebo. The two groups had a similar degree of nicotine dependence and similar demographic profiles. Withdrawal symptoms were scored at baseline and periodically during the two weeks after …