{"id":54110,"date":"2022-10-13T18:22:49","date_gmt":"2022-10-13T22:22:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=54110"},"modified":"2022-10-13T18:22:49","modified_gmt":"2022-10-13T22:22:49","slug":"guanfacine-side-effects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/","title":{"rendered":"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> <a href=\"#common\">Common guanfacine side effects<\/a> | <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> <a href=\"#serious\">Serious side effects<\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> | <a href=\"#weight\">Weight gain<\/a> | <a href=\"#mood\">Mood swings<\/a> | <a href=\"#insomnia\">Insomnia<\/a> | <a href=\"#timeline\">Side effects timeline<\/a> |\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#contraindications\">Contraindications<\/a> | <a href=\"#warnings\">Warnings<\/a> | <a href=\"#interactions\">Interactions<\/a> | <a href=\"#avoid\">How to avoid side effects<\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0| <a href=\"#treat\">How to treat side effects<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The generic <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescription drug<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/guanfacine-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> reduces blood pressure in adults diagnosed with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/blood-pressure-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood pressure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brand-name<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> guanfacine, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/intuniv\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Intuniv<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, is sometimes prescribed to improve attention in children and teens with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">attention deficit hyperactivity disorder<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/adhd-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healthcare providers<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at times prescribe <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/off-label-prescription-drugs\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">off-label<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for other <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medical conditions<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/alpha-agonists\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">alpha <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">adrenergic receptor<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">agonist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a stimulant. As such, it increases activity in the brain that is responsible for attention and controlling <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">impulsivity<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in children with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. However, it also reduces the strength of the brain\u2019s nerve <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">impulses<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to blood vessels, causing them to widen and reducing blood pressure. Different <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">formulations<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are used for each condition: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immediate-release<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (IR) <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hypertension<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extended-release<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (ER) <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The types and likelihood of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are based on the condition being treated, the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">formulation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> prescribed, and other drugs being used for the same condition.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"common\">Common side effects of guanfacine<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">common side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are dose-dependent, that is, they\u2019re more likely to be experienced at higher doses. However, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sleepiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is the most <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">common side effect<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/guanfacine-hcl\/what-is\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> no matter what it\u2019s taken for.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of guanfacine (ER)<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=07a701e2-39b7-4bb1-a7c7-d9baed4ab18a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">when prescribed <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleepiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abdominal pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decreased appetite<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Irritability<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lethargy<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Urinary incontinence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow heart rate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nightmares<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rash<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weakness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of guanfacine (IR)<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=73d50917-c807-4213-8efe-aea209845936\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">when prescribed for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood pressure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleepiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weakness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Impotence (at higher doses)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (at higher doses)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"serious\">Serious side effects of guanfacine<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/128705\/guanfacine\/Adverse-Reactions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">serious side effects<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slowed <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">heart rate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart block (ER form)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Very low blood pressure (ER form)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hallucinations (ER form)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wheezing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Severe allergic reactions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fainting or passing out<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seizures (ER form)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High blood pressure if stopped suddenly<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"weight\">Weight gain<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weight gain is an uncommon <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effect<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, occurring primarily in children taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extended-release<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. In <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.accessdata.fda.gov\/drugsatfda_docs\/label\/2013\/022037s009lbl.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">clinical trials<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, approximately 3% of children had a weight increase, but that compares to 2% of participants who gained weight but did not take <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Weight gain is not a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effect<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> among adults taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. As with any <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescription drug<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, if weight goes up involuntarily, get <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medical advice<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from the prescribing <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"mood\">Mood swings<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mood swings are an uncommon <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effect<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in children and adolescents prescribed <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. In at least one clinical trial, about 1% to 3% of children had problems with mood changes, but at least 1% of participants not taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> also reported mood swings. The incidence does not seem to be related to the size of the daily dose. Mood swings are not a reported <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effect<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in adults. Mood swings can interfere with a child\u2019s daily functioning, so report any mood problems to the prescribing <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"insomnia\">Insomnia<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insomnia may occur in children and adults who take guanfacine. In clinical trials for both <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immediate-release tablets<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for adults with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extended-release tablets<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for children with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, about 4% to 8% of participants had a problem with sleeplessness during treatment. Because the most <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">common side effect<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sleepiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, problems with insomnia were lowest among participants taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in the evening. Report any problems with falling asleep or staying asleep to the prescribing <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. There are effective ways to manage sleep problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>RELATED: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/sleep-diet\/\"><b>The best diet for sleep<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"timeline\">How soon do guanfacine side effects start?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> begins to work as a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">central nervous system<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> stimulant and blood pressure-lowering drug with the first dose, though it may take a few weeks to show improvement in controlling <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD symptoms<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. After a dose is taken, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immediate-release<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> hits its maximum concentration in the body in one to four hours, and five hours for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extended-release<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Many transient <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> such as <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dry mouth<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, abdominal pain, headache, nausea, and diarrhea may be experienced during that time. Some other <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may occur weeks or months after starting treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-is-anxiety\">How long do guanfacine side effects last?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2019s minor <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are temporary and get better over time. The remainder usually improves after <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is discontinued. Because it takes the body 17 to 18 hours to clear half a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dose of guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, it may take two or three days for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to go away after the last dose. Some of the more severe <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects, though rare,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may have long-term or lifelong consequences.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the long-term <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects of guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As both a blood pressure medication and an <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD medication<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> treatment may last for months or even years. While <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are common, there are no <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> specifically resulting from long-term use.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"contraindications\">Guanfacine contraindications<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is never prescribed to anyone with known allergies to the drug.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is used cautiously during pregnancy. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Animal studies<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> suggest there is no risk to the fetus, but there are no studies on humans.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breastfeeding<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is used cautiously in people who are <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">breastfeeding<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It is not known if <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is present in human <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">breast milk<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or if there are risks to the nursing infant. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK501522\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> does reduce prolactin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the hormone that\u2019s responsible for lactation. This may affect the ability to produce <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">breast milk while guanfacine is being taken<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extended-release<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FDA<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">-approved for children ages 6 to 17 to treat <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Children and teens are more likely than adults to have emotional or psychiatric symptoms with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. These symptoms include irritability, aggression, mood changes, and\u2014rarely\u2014hallucinations. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> should be stored securely at <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">room temperature<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and out of the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">reach of children<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>RELATED: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/adhd-medication-children\/\"><b>ADHD medication and children<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seniors<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Older adults will be prescribed <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> cautiously. There are two reasons. First, older adults are more susceptible to the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sedative<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> effects of the drug, raising the risk of falls, accidents, and injuries. Second, older adults clear the drug more slowly from the body, increasing the risk for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healthcare providers<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are urged to start seniors at low doses.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"warnings\">Guanfacine warnings<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with every <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescription drug<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is not safe for everyone. It also has potential hazards that people taking the drug should be aware of.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cautions<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medical conditions<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> increase the risk of side effects with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Greater caution, lower doses, or stricter monitoring may be required. These medical conditions include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart and vascular problems: Because of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2019s effects on the heart, people with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cardiovascular<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> disease, coronary artery disease, recent heart attack, slow heartbeat, heart block, or any problems with heart rhythms may require lower doses and closer monitoring.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver disease or kidney disease: People with reduced liver or kidney function will clear <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from the body more slowly than usual, increasing the risk for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: When <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is prescribed for a condition other than <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, it can cause <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">low blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. People who already have <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">low blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, are dehydrated, faint easily, or experience a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing (orthostatic hypotension) are particularly at risk.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abuse and dependence<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is not a controlled substance or considered a drug abuse risk.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> does, however, cause withdrawal symptoms when abruptly discontinued. Stopping <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> suddenly can cause a sudden and steep rise in blood pressure. In some cases, this rebound <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hypertension<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will cause mild to serious neurological problems. When either <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">immediate-release<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extended-release<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is stopped, doses will be steadily decreased to prevent rebound <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hypertension<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and other withdrawal symptoms. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart rate<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and blood pressure may need to be monitored as the dose is reduced.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Withdrawal symptoms include headache, confusion, agitation, shaking, and nervousness. The most severe symptoms requiring emergency medical treatment are severe headache, vomiting, vision problems, trouble balancing, excessive <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sleepiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or seizures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overdose<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Call a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">poison control center<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or get emergency medical treatment if a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> overdose is suspected. Symptoms of an overdose include <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drowsiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">low blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, slow heartbeats, and moving around slowly. Coma is also possible . The maximum <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FDA<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">-approved dose is 4 mg per day. Don\u2019t exceed the prescribed dose for any reason.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"interactions\">Guanfacine interactions<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has some hazardous <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drug interactions<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. None of these are dangerous enough to prohibit combining <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with another drug, but many require caution. These include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other alpha <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">agonists:<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Alpha <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">agonists<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/clonidine-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">clonidine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are used to lower blood pressure or treat <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. They all work the same way and have most of the same <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Taking more than one alpha <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">agonist<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> could worsen the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of both.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs that block the body\u2019s breakdown of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine: <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some drugs interfere with the liver\u2019s metabolism of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, raising the risk of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. In some cases, the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> dose may need to be lowered. These drugs include some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/macrolides\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">macrolide antibiotics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, azole <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antifungals\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antifungals<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/hiv-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HIV\/AIDS<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> antiviral medications.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/tricyclic-antidepressants\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tricyclic antidepressants<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: First-generation antidepressants block the ability of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to lower blood pressure and may significantly contribute to rebound <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hypertension<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is discontinued.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs that lower blood pressure: Even though <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is normally prescribed with other blood pressure medications, some combinations can result in blood pressure dropping too low. Other drugs can also lower blood pressure, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/opioids\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">opioids<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, sleeping aids, and alcohol.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs that raise blood pressure: Some drugs raise blood pressure including <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">stimulant medications<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/migraine-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">migraine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> drugs, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> medications<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">over-the-counter<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> decongestants, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/nsaids\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NSAIDs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and caffeine. While not dangerous, taking these drugs will counteract the therapeutic benefits of taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs that cause <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sleepiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Drugs that cause <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sedation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drowsiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will worsen the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sedative<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> effects of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. These include sleep aids, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antidepressants\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antidepressants<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/benzodiazepines\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">benzodiazepines<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/barbiturates\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">barbiturates<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/anxiolytics\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">anxiety medications<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/opioids\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">opioids<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, marijuana, alcohol, and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">over-the-counter<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> drugs like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antihistamines\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antihistamines<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"avoid\">How to avoid guanfacine side effects<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Possible side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will vary depending on whether <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is being used for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hypertension<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Even so, a few general pointers can help people avoid <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Give the prescriber a complete medical history<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most efficient way to avoid <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is to tell the prescriber about certain <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medical conditions<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney problems<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Give the prescriber and pharmacist a complete list of drugs being taken<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many drugs and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">supplements<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can interact with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so make sure that both the prescriber and pharmacist know about all <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prescription drugs<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">over-the-counter<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> medications, and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">supplements<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> being taken.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Take <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as prescribed<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Follow all the instructions given by the prescriber and written on the prescription label, as well as the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drug information<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> included with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If a dose is missed, it can be taken when remembered. But don\u2019t take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">missed dose<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> if it\u2019s almost time for the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">next dose<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Just take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">next dose<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when it\u2019s time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Take the daily <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> dose at night<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To avoid <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drowsiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and other problems throughout the day, take each day\u2019s dose at night.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Don\u2019t take <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> tablets with a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high-fat meal<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> tablets can be taken on an empty stomach or with a meal. However, if the tablets are taken with fatty foods, the body will absorb more of the drug, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Treatments\/Mental-Health-Medications\/Types-of-Medication\/Guanfacine-(Intuniv)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">increasing the chances of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Avoid drinking<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drinking alcohol will worsen the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sedative<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> effects of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, so it\u2019s best to either avoid drinking or to drink very little. The same applies to any medicine, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">supplement<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or drug that causes <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sleepiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and reduces alertness.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"treat\">How to treat side effects of guanfacine<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can\u2019t be avoided. Mild <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">adverse effects<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can usually be managed. Others, however, will require medical attention.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleepiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If feeling tired or sleepy, sit or lie down to rest. The primary goal is to prevent falling, accidents, or injury. Avoid driving, operating machinery, hazardous activities, or even cutting vegetables. Contact a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> professional if severe <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drowsiness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is experienced.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sugarless gum or candy can help. Sipping water can, too, but don\u2019t overdo it. If <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dry mouth<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is intolerable, ask a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> professional about possible treatments such as artificial saliva.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because of the risk for rebound <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, immediately talk to a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> professional if vomiting or any other condition interferes with the ability to take <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is primarily a risk for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pediatric<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> patients taking <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADHD symptoms<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Call a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare provider<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when symptoms of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">low blood pressure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are noticed. These include lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting, trouble concentrating, and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tiredness<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow heart rate<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If heartbeats seem to be slow, immediately talk to a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthcare<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> professional.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sources<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/128701\/guanfacine\/Adult-Dosing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Epocrates<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK501522\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Drugs and Lactation Database<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Intuniv-guanfacine-535.6163\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> drug summary<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Prescriber\u2019s Digital Reference<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=07a701e2-39b7-4bb1-a7c7-d9baed4ab18a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine hydrochloride<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extended-release tablet<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> prescribing information<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, U.S. National Library of Medicine<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=73d50917-c807-4213-8efe-aea209845936\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine hydrochloride<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> tablet prescribing information<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, U.S. National Library of Medicine<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/About-Mental-Illness\/Treatments\/Mental-Health-Medications\/Types-of-Medication\/Guanfacine-(Intuniv)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guanfacine<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Intuniv<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, National Alliance on Mental Illness<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Common guanfacine side effects | Serious side effects | Weight gain | Mood swings | Insomnia | Side effects timeline |\u00a0Contraindications | Warnings | Interactions | How to avoid side effects\u00a0| How to treat side effects The generic prescription drug guanfacine reduces blood pressure in adults diagnosed with high blood pressure. Brand-name guanfacine, Intuniv, is [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":54596,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4589],"tags":[12752],"coauthors":[8861],"class_list":["post-54110","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-info","tag-medication-side-effects","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Weight gain, mood swings, and insomnia are common guanfacine side effects. Learn how long side effects of guanfacine last and how to avoid them.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Weight gain, mood swings, and insomnia are common guanfacine side effects. Learn how long side effects of guanfacine last and how to avoid them.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"The Checkup\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/singlecare\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2022-10-13T22:22:49+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/guanfacine-side-effects.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1920\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"SingleCare Team\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@SingleCare\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@SingleCare\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"SingleCare Team\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"SingleCare Team\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/403ef50a9f402fb9ce49c429659555f5\"},\"headline\":\"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-10-13T22:22:49+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2120,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/09\\\/guanfacine-side-effects.png\",\"keywords\":[\"Medication side effects\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Drug Info\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/\",\"name\":\"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/09\\\/guanfacine-side-effects.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-10-13T22:22:49+00:00\",\"description\":\"Weight gain, mood swings, and insomnia are common guanfacine side effects. Learn how long side effects of guanfacine last and how to avoid them.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/09\\\/guanfacine-side-effects.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2022\\\/09\\\/guanfacine-side-effects.png\",\"width\":1920,\"height\":1080,\"caption\":\"Rx pills and bottle: Guanfacine side effects\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/guanfacine-side-effects\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"The Checkup, a health blog by SingleCare\",\"description\":\"Read the latest in prescription, wellness, and healthcare news\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"SingleCare\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/placeholderimage-1.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/placeholderimage-1.jpg\",\"width\":1200,\"height\":630,\"caption\":\"SingleCare\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/singlecare\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/SingleCare\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/singlecare\\\/?hl=en\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/singlecare\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/channel\\\/UCd9kiPIjCQw95-2BHCYePKA\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/403ef50a9f402fb9ce49c429659555f5\",\"name\":\"SingleCare Team\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/7c56ea35da6164263b446caa5424dd8beeb331518803b6043b40932812936fb2?s=96&d=mm&r=gcda8e0f4c5718cb7f68c0ee812f6fafb\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/7c56ea35da6164263b446caa5424dd8beeb331518803b6043b40932812936fb2?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/7c56ea35da6164263b446caa5424dd8beeb331518803b6043b40932812936fb2?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"SingleCare Team\"},\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.singlecare.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/singlecareteam\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them","description":"Weight gain, mood swings, and insomnia are common guanfacine side effects. Learn how long side effects of guanfacine last and how to avoid them.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them","og_description":"Weight gain, mood swings, and insomnia are common guanfacine side effects. Learn how long side effects of guanfacine last and how to avoid them.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/","og_site_name":"The Checkup","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/singlecare","article_published_time":"2022-10-13T22:22:49+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1920,"height":1080,"url":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/guanfacine-side-effects.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"SingleCare Team","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@SingleCare","twitter_site":"@SingleCare","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"SingleCare Team","Est. reading time":"10 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/"},"author":{"name":"SingleCare Team","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/403ef50a9f402fb9ce49c429659555f5"},"headline":"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them","datePublished":"2022-10-13T22:22:49+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/"},"wordCount":2120,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/guanfacine-side-effects.png","keywords":["Medication side effects"],"articleSection":["Drug Info"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/","url":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/","name":"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/guanfacine-side-effects.png","datePublished":"2022-10-13T22:22:49+00:00","description":"Weight gain, mood swings, and insomnia are common guanfacine side effects. Learn how long side effects of guanfacine last and how to avoid them.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/guanfacine-side-effects.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/guanfacine-side-effects.png","width":1920,"height":1080,"caption":"Rx pills and bottle: Guanfacine side effects"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/guanfacine-side-effects\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Guanfacine side effects and how to avoid them"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/","name":"The Checkup, a health blog by SingleCare","description":"Read the latest in prescription, wellness, and healthcare news","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"SingleCare","url":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/placeholderimage-1.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/placeholderimage-1.jpg","width":1200,"height":630,"caption":"SingleCare"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/singlecare","https:\/\/x.com\/SingleCare","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/singlecare\/?hl=en","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/singlecare\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCd9kiPIjCQw95-2BHCYePKA"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/403ef50a9f402fb9ce49c429659555f5","name":"SingleCare Team","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/7c56ea35da6164263b446caa5424dd8beeb331518803b6043b40932812936fb2?s=96&d=mm&r=gcda8e0f4c5718cb7f68c0ee812f6fafb","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/7c56ea35da6164263b446caa5424dd8beeb331518803b6043b40932812936fb2?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/7c56ea35da6164263b446caa5424dd8beeb331518803b6043b40932812936fb2?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"SingleCare Team"},"url":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/author\/singlecareteam\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54110","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=54110"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54110\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/54596"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=54110"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=54110"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=54110"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=54110"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}