Guanfacine: Drug Information

Generic name: Guanfacine

Other names: Tenex

Drug Class: Antihypertensive

Uses of Guanfacine:

Guanfacine is an antihypertensive drug and is prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure or hypertension. This medicine is also used to treat Attention Deficit Hypertensive Disorder (ADHD) and tic disorders like Tourette’s syndrome. Guanfacine regulates the levels of norepinephrine and can be used alone or in combination with other medicines such as stimulants to treat ADHD. This medicine is a good option for children diagnosed with ADHD and conduct disorders who cannot tolerate stimulant therapy and is often used to reduce the symptoms of aggressiveness and insomnia generally associated with stimulants.

As a hypertensive drug, Guanfacine works on the central nervous system (CNS) and relaxes the blood vessels to lower the pressure of blood.

Dosage:

You must take Guanfacine as directed by your doctor and stick to your schedule. It is best to take the medicine with food before bedtime to avoid chances of stomach upset. Guanfacine is available in tablet form and must not be broken or crushed but should be swallowed as whole.

Warning and Precautions:

Caution is advised when taking the medicine with other drugs prescribed for asthma, appetite control, cold, cough or sinusitis as this may increase the blood pressure.

Regular monitoring and caution is advised when prescribing the medicine to patients with severe coronary insufficiency, myocardial infarction, kidney disease, liver disease or cerebrovascular disease.

DO NOT take any central nervous system (CNS) depressants when taking Guanfacine.

Avoid consuming alcohol with Guanfacine.

Guanfacine may cause sedation in the initial stages, therefore avoid operating any heavy machinery or driving while on the medicine.

DO NOT take medicines prescribed for seizures, seizures, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, barbiturates and anesthetics.

Side Effects of Guanfacine:

Some of the most common side effects of the medication include depression, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, hives, choking, constipation, respiratory disturbances, swollen lips or tongue, dryness of the mouth, insomnia, fatigue, gas, unusually high or low blood pressure, flushing of the face, loss of appetite, angina-like pain, mood alterations, cramps, taste changes, blurring of vision and decreased sex drive.

Overdose:

The symptoms of Guanfacine drug overdose include lethargy, drowsiness, bradycardia and hypotension. You must notify your doctor at the earliest in case of an overdose or contact your local poison control center if any emergency arises.