People with ADHD spend many hours looking for a range of treatment alternatives, including different stimulant medications and behavioral therapy. Their inability to focus, pay attention, stay on task, and stay organized takes a toll on them.
To remedy all such issues, there is one particular medication that often comes up in conversations with healthcare professionals: Guanfacine.
Guanfacine was originally developed to treat high blood pressure; however, it is now commonly prescribed (in its extended-release form) to help manage ADHD symptoms.
What Is Guanfacine?
Guanfacine is a medication that alters brain receptors associated with attention and impulse control. The extended-release variant, known by the brand name Intuniv, is commonly used for ADHD. Guanfacine is regarded as a non-stimulant alternative to stimulant drugs, which may be helpful for those who require an add-on therapy or are unable to handle stimulants.
The Science Behind Guanfacine and ADHD
Alpha-2A adrenergic receptors in the brain, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, are the target of guanfacine. This area of the brain is crucial for working memory, attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation. These circuits are disrupted in many individuals with ADHD.
Guanfacine acts more selectively on the brain’s receptor pathways than stimulants, which affect dopamine and norepinephrine levels. For those who don’t react well to stimulants, it may be helpful because it tends to have more slow and steady effects.
How Effective Is Guanfacine for ADHD?
Guanfacine can enhance working memory and attention, as indicated by research and clinical experience. The said medication can:
- Cut down on impulsivity
- Reduce excessive activities
- Encourage children, in particular, to control their behavior
Guanfacine is a good choice for the following conditions, while stimulants are still thought to be the best first-line treatment for ADHD:
- Children who experience severe stimulant side effects
- People who require extra symptom management in addition to stimulant therapy
- For co-occurring disorders, such as oppositional behaviors, sleep problems, or tics
It may take many weeks to see results from guanfacine. However, its effects are usually more gradual and steady throughout the day.
How Much Does Guanfacine Cost?
The cost of Guanfacine varies in the US depending on the pharmacy, dosage, and whether you buy the brand-name (Intuniv) or generic version. A month’s supply (such as 30 tablets) can be significantly less expensive when purchased from online pharmacies or through discount cards. However, 100 generic extended-release tablets (1 mg) can often cost about $28.19.
While the brand-name ER version is usually more expensive, the generic version is generally more reasonably priced and is often covered by many insurance policies. After applying insurance or discount programs, many patients find that their expenses become manageable.
Your doctor or pharmacist can help you explore ways to manage fair pricing if cost is a concern.
What Are the Side Effects?
Although Guanfacine is usually well-tolerated, adverse effects are possible with any medication. Typical ones consist of:
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- A headache
- Mouth dryness
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea or discomfort in the stomach
Doctors typically advise using Guanfacine at night and caution against abruptly quitting medication since it lowers blood pressure and decreases heart rate. A sudden stop could increase blood pressure (rebound hypertension). A dose change may be helpful if side effects are troublesome or persist. Notable but less frequent adverse effects could be:
- Anger
- Having trouble falling asleep
- Constipation
What’s the Recommended Dosage of Guanfacine for ADHD?
Guanfacine is administered as extended-release (ER) pills for ADHD, which are typically taken once daily. Typical dosage looks like this:
- The starting dose is 1 mg once daily.
- Increases gradually: typically by 1 mg every week
- Typical effective dosage range: 1-4 mg daily, based on symptom severity, age, and weight
The dosage is customized, and as it is adjusted, your doctor will monitor for any adverse effects or changes in blood pressure. However, it is crucial to note: Do not chew or shatter the ER tablets.
The majority of American pharmacies carry Guanfacine ER. While brand-name Intuniv may require special ordering, the generic version is typically stocked in pharmacies. It can be prescribed by primary care physicians, psychiatrists, pediatricians, and telehealth providers.
Symptoms Needed to Qualify for Guanfacine
Patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder are usually prescribed guanfacine. Symptoms could consist of:
- Inability to maintain focus
- Excessive activity or restlessness
- Impulsive actions
- Having trouble staying organized or finishing chores
- Dysregulation of emotions
- Having trouble following directions
Before beginning any ADHD medication, a thorough examination is required. Guanfacine may be advised especially for those who:
- Exhibit adverse effects or a poor reaction to stimulants
- Need to manage symptoms in the evening or early in the morning
- Have anxiety or sleep problems that coexist
- Possesses tics that could get worse when using stimulants
Guanfacine is a useful supplement or substitute for stimulant drugs in the treatment of ADHD. It has a distinct side-effect profile that some patients find easier to tolerate, tends to work gradually, and offers consistent symptom management.
Consult a healthcare professional from Your Doctors Online if you’re thinking about taking Guanfacine for yourself or your child to find the ideal dosage schedule and track how well it suits your needs.
