Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) is an extended‑release nonstimulant medication approved for ADHD in children and adolescents.
- What it is: Guanfacine ER is the extended‑release form of guanfacine, sold as Intuniv. It’s not a stimulant.
- How it works: It’s an alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist that helps improve attention and impulse control by affecting the prefrontal cortex.
- Who it’s for: Children and teens aged 6–17 with ADHD. It can be used alone or added to stimulant ADHD medications.
- How it’s given: Oral tablets taken once daily, usually in the evening (you can take with or without food). Do not crush or chew the tablet.
- Dosing (typical):
- Start around 1 mg once daily, in the evening.
- Increase by about 1 mg per week as tolerated.
- Target dose often 2–4 mg once daily; maximum recommended dose for ADHD in this age group is 4 mg/day.
- Doses may be adjusted based on response and tolerability; your doctor decides the best dose.
- What to watch for (common side effects):
- Sleepiness or fatigue, drowsiness
- Dry mouth, dizziness
- Headache, stomach upset, decreased appetite
- Low blood pressure or slow heart rate (bradycardia); lightheadedness, especially when standing
- Important cautions:
- Do not stop suddenly; taper over several days to avoid rebound high blood pressure, fast heart rate, or other symptoms.
- Can cause sedation—may impair alertness; avoid driving if you feel sleepy after a dose.
- Use with caution if you take other blood pressure–lowering medicines or CNS depressants (talk to your doctor about all meds).
- Tell your doctor if you have heart problems, liver issues, or a history of fainting.
- Interactions:
- Other antihypertensives or sedatives can increase blood pressure/HR effects.
- Some antidepressants or antipsychotics may interact; always list all medicines to your doctor.
- Pregnancy/Lactation: If you’re pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, talk with your clinician about risks and alternatives.
- Monitoring: Blood pressure and heart rate (especially early in therapy), growth in children (height/weight), and ADHD symptom response. Regular follow‑ups help adjust the dose.
- Missed dose/overdose:
- If you miss a dose, skip it and resume the next day. Do not double up.
- If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help or call poison control.
If you’re asking because you or someone you know is starting Intuniv, I can tailor information to the exact dose, age, or any symptoms you’re concerned about. Do you want details on a specific dosing plan, side effects, or safety in a particular situation?