Guanfacine extended-release (US brand name Intuniv® and generic) is a central alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist. It is not a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. Here is basic information about this medication.
FDA-approved indications
Treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a monotherapy or as an adjuvant to stimulant medications
Pharmacodynamics and mechanism of action
Guanfacine is a central, selective alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist.
– By “central”, we mean its effects are in the brain.
– By “selective”, we mean that it has a 20-times higher affinity for the alpha2A receptor subtype than for the alpha2B or alpha2C subtypes.
Dosage
In children (ages 6-12) and adolescents (ages 13-17)
Starting: 1 mg once daily either in the morning or evening
Titration: Up to 1 mg/week increments Recommended dose: 1 mg to 7 mg (0.05–0.12 mg/kg target weight-based dose range) once daily in the morning or evening based on clinical response and tolerability
Maximum: 4 mg/day in children and 7 mg/day in adolescents
Treatment with guanfacine should not be discontinued abruptly as it may lead to rebound hypertension and an increase in heart rate. The dose should be tapered gradually by no more than 1 mg every 3 to 7 days.
Dosage forms and strengths
Extended-release tablets: 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, and 4 mg
Important! Please refer to the full Prescribing Information (see link below) before prescribing this medication.
Related Pages
Guanfacine extended-release (Intuniv®): Basic Information
Does guanfacine work for ADHD in adults?
Combining guanfacine and stimulants for ADHD
Guanfacine versus clonidine for ADHD
How to manage stimulant-induced hypertension
References
Guanfacine (Intuniv®) Prescribing Information
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