Guanfancine
What is Guanfacine?
Guanfacine is a drug employed to manage high blood pressure and to address attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and teenagers (1)(2)(3)(5)(6). The medication is available under the brand monikers Tenex (for immediate-release) and Intuniv (for extended-release) (3)(5). It belongs to the medication class named centrally acting alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonists (1)(3). Guanfacine functions by reducing heart rate and relaxing blood vessels, facilitating a more effortless blood circulation throughout the body (1)(2). The extended-release formulation of guanfacine may ameliorate ADHD by influencing the brain regions responsible for attention and impulsivity (1).
Dosage
The dosage for guanfacine is contingent on the ailment being addressed and the patient's weight (1)(2)(3)(5)(6). Typically, for hypertension treatment, guanfacine is administered orally in doses ranging from 1mg to 4mg daily (2)(5). For ADHD management, the usual dose oscillates between 1mg and 4mg per day, taken orally (1)(3)(5). Treatment duration is predominantly long-term, with the exact span contingent on the condition (1)(2)(3)(5).
Side Effects
Guanfacine can induce side effects. Potential side effects from oral administration encompass dry mouth, fatigue, weakness, headache, irritability, diminished libido, reduced appetite, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, fainting, blurred vision, and a sluggish heart rate (1)(2)(3)(5). Some side effects can escalate in severity, necessitating immediate medical attention. Such serious side effects include rashes, orthostatic hypotension, syncope, or electrocardiography changes, including bradycardia (5).
Interactions
There's a potential for guanfacine to interact with certain medications. As a precautionary measure, consulting with a medical professional is advisable before co-administering guanfacine with other drugs or supplements (1)(3)(5).
Summary:
Guanfacine, available under the brands Tenex and Intuniv, is a medication for treating hypertension and ADHD in children and adolescents. Classified as a centrally acting alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist, it acts by decreasing heart rate and relaxing blood vessels. This facilitates smoother blood flow within the body. While the drug can cause several side effects, some of which can be severe, it is generally administered on a long-term basis. It's crucial to seek medical advice before combining guanfacine with other medications due to potential interactions.
Citations:
(1) https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601059.html
(2) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/guanfacine-oral-route/description/drg-20064131
(3) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guanfacine
(4) https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5481-1255/guanfacine-oral/guanfacine-extended-release-oral/details
(5) https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2011/0215/p468.html
(6) https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Guanfacine-(Intuniv)