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Guanfacine Medication: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained
Summary of Key Points
Guanfacine is a prescription medication commonly used to treat conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), high blood pressure, and anxiety disorders. It works by interacting with specific receptors in the brain to help manage symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsivity, and elevated blood pressure. Guanfacine is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. If you need personalized care, consider scheduling a telemedicine visit with one of our providers.
Names of Guanfacine Medication
US Brand Name: Intuniv (Guanfacine)
US Brand Name: Tenex (Guanfacine)
The generic name refers to the active ingredient, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. In this case, Guanfacine is the generic name.
Pharmacologic Category
Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist
Guanfacine Dosage
Guanfacine is prescribed for various conditions, with the dosage tailored to the specific condition being treated. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and consult them before making any changes. You can also schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers for further guidance.
Guanfacine for ADHD
Adults: The typical starting dose is 1 mg once daily, usually taken in the morning or evening. The dose may be increased by 1 mg per week, up to a maximum of 7 mg per day. The duration of treatment varies depending on individual response.
Guanfacine for Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Adults: The usual starting dose is 1 mg once daily at bedtime. The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 3 mg per day, depending on how well your blood pressure responds.
Guanfacine for Anxiety Disorders
Adults: The starting dose is typically 1 mg per day, which may be adjusted based on how the patient responds. The duration of treatment varies.
Guanfacine for Tourette Syndrome
Adults: The starting dose is 0.5 mg to 1 mg per day, with gradual increases based on symptom control. The maximum recommended dose is 4 mg per day.
Guanfacine for Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Adults: The starting dose is 1 mg per day, which may be increased gradually based on symptom improvement. The maximum dose is typically 4 mg per day.
Guanfacine for Sleep Disorders
Adults: The starting dose is 1 mg at bedtime. The dose may be adjusted based on response and tolerance.
Guanfacine for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Adults: The starting dose is 1 mg per day, with gradual increases based on symptom control. The maximum dose is 4 mg per day.
Guanfacine for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Adults: The starting dose is 1 mg per day, which may be adjusted based on the severity of symptoms. The maximum dose is typically 4 mg per day.
Guanfacine for Substance Use Disorders
Adults: The starting dose is 1 mg per day, with gradual increases based on response. The maximum dose is 4 mg per day.
Guanfacine for Conduct Disorder
Adults: The starting dose is 1 mg per day, which may be increased gradually. The maximum dose is typically 4 mg per day.
Dosage Forms and Strengths of Guanfacine
Immediate-release tablets: 1 mg, 2 mg
Extended-release tablets: 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg
Administration Instructions for Guanfacine
Take Guanfacine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It can be taken with or without food. If you are prescribed the extended-release form, swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double up on doses. Always consult your doctor or schedule a telemedicine visit if you have any questions about how to take your medication.
Guanfacine Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Like all medications, Guanfacine can cause side effects. Some are more common, while others are rare but may be serious. If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Common Guanfacine Side Effects
These occur in more than 1 in 10 people.
- Drowsiness: Feeling unusually sleepy or fatigued.
- Dry mouth: A persistent sensation of dryness in the mouth or throat.
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
Less Common Guanfacine Side Effects
These occur in 1 in 100 to 1 in 1,000 people.
- Low blood pressure: Feeling faint or dizzy, especially when standing up quickly.
- Bradycardia: A slower-than-normal heart rate.
- Constipation: Difficulty with bowel movements.
Rare Guanfacine Side Effects
These occur in fewer than 1 in 1,000 people.
- Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Severe hypotension: Dangerously low blood pressure that may require medical attention.
Contraindications for Guanfacine
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may be harmful. Before starting Guanfacine, discuss any medical conditions with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for you.
Contraindications for Guanfacine Use
Allergy to Guanfacine: If you have a known allergy to Guanfacine, you should not take this medication. Allergic reactions can cause symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, which can be dangerous.
Severe Heart Conditions: Guanfacine can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. If you have a history of bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart block, or other significant heart problems, taking Guanfacine may worsen these conditions.
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Since Guanfacine can lower blood pressure, it is contraindicated in individuals who already have low blood pressure, as it could lead to dizziness, fainting, or other complications.
Liver or Kidney Disease: Guanfacine is processed by the liver and kidneys. If you have severe liver or kidney disease, your body may not be able to properly process the medication, leading to increased side effects or toxicity.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Guanfacine can interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either Guanfacine or the other drug. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products.
Medications that Interact with Guanfacine
Central Nervous System Depressants: Medications such as benzodiazepines (e.g., Ativan [lorazepam], Valium [diazepam]) or opioids (e.g., OxyContin [oxycodone]) may increase drowsiness and sedation when taken with Guanfacine.
Antihypertensive Medications: Drugs used to lower blood pressure, such as Lisinopril or Amlodipine, may have an additive effect, potentially leading to excessively low blood pressure when combined with Guanfacine.
Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications like Ketoconazole or Clarithromycin can increase Guanfacine levels in the blood, raising the risk of side effects.
Strong CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs such as Rifampin or Carbamazepine can reduce Guanfacine’s effectiveness by lowering its concentration in the bloodstream.
Guanfacine in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Guanfacine during pregnancy?
The safety of Guanfacine during pregnancy is not well established. Limited data is available on its use in pregnant women, and animal studies have shown potential risks to the fetus. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits of Guanfacine with your healthcare provider. They may recommend alternative treatments or closely monitor you if Guanfacine is deemed necessary.
Guanfacine while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Guanfacine while breastfeeding?
There is limited information on whether Guanfacine passes into breast milk. Due to the potential for adverse effects on a nursing infant, caution is advised if you are breastfeeding while taking Guanfacine. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider, who may suggest alternative treatments or monitor your baby for any side effects.
Estimated Cost of Guanfacine Medication
The cost of a 30-day supply of Guanfacine without insurance can vary depending on the dosage and the pharmacy. Using a GoodRx coupon, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Guanfacine (1mg) ranges from $10 to $30. Prices may fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to check with your local pharmacy or use a prescription discount service to find the best price.
Possible Alternatives to Guanfacine
If Guanfacine isn’t the right fit for you, other treatment options are available depending on the condition being treated. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss these alternatives.
Alternatives for ADHD Treatment
Stimulant Medications: Medications like Adderall (amphetamine) or Ritalin (methylphenidate) are commonly prescribed for ADHD.
Non-Stimulant Medications:Atomoxetine (Strattera) is another non-stimulant option for ADHD.
Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other behavioral interventions can help manage ADHD symptoms.
Alternatives for Hypertension
ACE Inhibitors: Medications like Lisinopril can help lower blood pressure.
Calcium Channel Blockers: Drugs such as Amlodipine are also used to treat high blood pressure.
Lifestyle Changes: Reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, and managing stress can significantly help lower blood pressure.
Alternatives for Anxiety Disorders
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Medications like Sertraline (Zoloft) or Fluoxetine (Prozac) are often prescribed for anxiety.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is an effective treatment for many anxiety disorders.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety symptoms.
Alternatives for Tourette Syndrome
Antipsychotic Medications: Drugs like Risperidone (Risperdal) may help reduce tics.
Behavioral Therapy: Comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics (CBIT) is a specialized therapy for Tourette syndrome.
Alternatives for Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): This therapy focuses on improving the parent-child relationship and managing behavior.
Behavioral Therapy: Individual therapy for the child can help manage defiant behaviors.
Alternatives for Sleep Disorders
Melatonin Supplements: Melatonin can help regulate sleep cycles.
Sleep Hygiene: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can improve sleep quality.
Alternatives for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): ABA therapy can help improve social, communication, and learning skills.
Speech and Occupational Therapy: These therapies can address specific developmental challenges in children with autism.
Alternatives for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
SSRIs: Medications like Sertraline (Zoloft) are often prescribed for PTSD.
Trauma-Focused Therapy: Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are effective treatments for PTSD.
Alternatives for Substance Use Disorders
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Medications like Buprenorphine or Naltrexone can help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Counseling and Support Groups: Therapy and peer support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can be helpful.
Alternatives for Conduct Disorder
Behavioral Therapy: Therapy focused on improving social skills and managing aggressive behaviors can be effective.
Family Therapy: Involving the family in therapy can help address underlying issues contributing to conduct disorder.
Recent Updates on Guanfacine Research
Recent studies have explored the potential benefits of Guanfacine beyond its current uses. For example, ongoing research is investigating its effectiveness in treating substance use disorders and improving cognitive function in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, some studies are examining the long-term effects of Guanfacine in children with ADHD, focusing on its safety and efficacy over extended periods. As research continues, new applications for Guanfacine may emerge, offering hope for patients with various conditions. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider for the latest information.
