Guanfacine Extended Release Oral Tablet (GUANFACINE EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL)

For attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Brand Name(s): Intuniv

Generic Name: Guanfacine

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

Avoid chewing the medicine.

Do not take this medicine with a high fat meal.

To relieve dry mouth, chew gum, suck on hard candy/ice chips, drink extra water, or use a saliva substitute.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Family should check on the patient often. Call the doctor if patient becomes more depressed, has thoughts of suicide, or shows changes in behavior.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

The side effects may improve with continued use.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • low blood pressure
  • nausea
  • problems with sexual functions or desire
  • stomach pain
  • weakness

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • confusion
  • fainting
  • hallucinations (unusual thoughts, seeing or hearing things that are not real)
  • rapid heartbeat
  • slow heartbeat
  • shortness of breath
  • suicidal thoughts
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.