
What is Intuniv (guanfacine)?
Intuniv (guanfacine) is an FDA-approved medication to help manage symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also called ADHD. ADHD is a condition that can make it hard for children and teenagers to focus, stay still, or control their actions.
Intuniv is approved for use in children aged six years and older. It works differently from most other ADHD treatments because it does not contain a stimulant.
This makes it a helpful option for those who cannot take stimulant treatments or who do not respond well to them.
The active ingredient in Intuniv is guanfacine. Guanfacine is part of a group of drugs called alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonists. This means it works by calming certain parts of the brain.
It helps improve focus, reduce impulsive actions, and lower hyperactivity. Intuniv comes in an extended-release tablet form, which slowly releases the ingredient throughout the day. This allows for once-daily dosing and steady symptom control.
There are two forms of guanfacine: immediate-release and extended-release. Intuniv is the extended-release version, specifically designed for the treatment of ADHD. The immediate-release form, sold under the name Tenex, is used to treat high blood pressure.
These two forms are not the same and should not be used interchangeably. Consult your doctor before switching one medication for another.
Patients should not crush, chew, or split the tablet. Some common side effects may include drowsiness, fatigue, low blood pressure, or a slow heart rate. If any of these effects become serious, contact your healthcare provider.
Stopping Intuniv suddenly may cause a temporary rise in blood pressure. To avoid this, doctors usually lower the dose slowly over time.
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In case of an overdose, seek medical help right away.
Indications and Benefits of Intuniv
Intuniv is used to help children and adolescents who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
It is approved for use in patients aged 6 years and older. Doctors may prescribe Intuniv alone or together with other ADHD treatments.
It works best when used as part of a full treatment plan that includes support at school, at home, and during therapy. Intuniv does not contain stimulants, which makes it a good choice for patients who cannot take stimulant options.
How It Works
Intuniv is a non-stimulant treatment for ADHD that works by targeting specific receptors in the brain. Unlike stimulant ADHD medications, Intuniv affects the brain differently.
The active ingredient, guanfacine, works on alpha-2A adrenergic receptors in the prefrontal cortex.
This part of the brain controls attention, behavior, and decision-making. By calming nerve signals in this area, Intuniv helps reduce hyperactivity, improve focus, and lower impulsive behavior.
Dosage
Finding the right Intuniv dosage depends on a person’s age, weight, and their response to treatment.
Doctors usually begin with a low Intuniv starting dose and adjust it slowly. Intuniv comes in an extended-release tablet that is taken once a day, either in the morning or evening.
You must take it at the same time every day. Never crush, chew, or break the tablets.
What are the available dosages and strengths of Intuniv?
- 1 mg extended-release tablet
- 2 mg extended-release tablet
- 3 mg extended-release tablet
- 4 mg extended-release tablet
These are the available options your doctor will choose from to create the right Intuniv dosing for children or adults.
Dosage chart
| Weight (kg) | Recommended Daily Dose (mg) |
| 25 – 33.9 kg | 2 to 3 mg |
| 34 – 41.4 kg | 2 to 4 mg |
| 41.5 – 49.4 kg | 3 to 5 mg |
| 49.5 – 58.4 kg | 3 to 6 mg |
| 58.5 – 91 kg | 4 to 7 mg |
| Over 91 kg | 5 to 7 mg |
Note: Your doctor will increase the dose by 1 mg each week as needed. Intuniv dosage for adults is generally within the same range but may vary based on tolerance and response.
How to switch from immediate-release Guanfacine to Intuniv?
You should not switch from immediate-release Guanfacine to Intuniv using the same dose. These two forms are absorbed differently in the body.
Your doctor will discontinue the immediate-release version and initiate a new dose of Intuniv. This helps avoid side effects and keeps the treatment safe and effective.
Dosage maintenance
Once your body adjusts to the treatment, your doctor will decide on the best daily dose for long-term use. Most people take between 1 mg and 4 mg each day.
This medication may be used alone or in combination with other ADHD treatments.
Can Intuniv be used long-term?
Yes, Intuniv can be used long-term for ADHD. However, your doctor should regularly check how well it works for you.
If it stops helping or causes side effects, the dose may need to be changed. Long-term treatment works best when combined with behavioral support and regular follow-ups.
What happens if I stop taking Intuniv abruptly?
Stopping Intuniv suddenly may cause a sudden rise in blood pressure, also known as rebound hypertension. To avoid this, your doctor will slowly reduce your dose, usually by 1 mg every 3 to 7 days. Never stop taking Intuniv without talking to your doctor first.
Usage Guide
- Take Intuniv exactly as your doctor tells you
- Swallow the tablet whole with water or milk
- Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet
- Take it once a day, in the morning or evening
- Take it at the same time every day
- Do not take Intuniv with a high-fat meal
- Your doctor may adjust your dose slowly over time
- Do not take two doses at once
- Your doctor may give you Intuniv with another ADHD treatment
- Your doctor will check your blood pressure and heart rate regularly
- Do not drive or use machines until you know how Intuniv affects you
- Avoid alcohol or any drugs that make you sleepy unless approved by your doctor
- Avoid becoming too hot or dehydrated to reduce the risk of low blood pressure or fainting
- Do not stop taking Intuniv suddenly without asking your doctor
Side Effects
Intuniv common side effects:
- Sleepiness
- Feeling tired
- Trouble sleeping
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Stomach pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Irritability
- Low blood pressure
- Slow heart rate
Serious side effects of Intuniv for ADHD:
- Fainting
- Very low blood pressure
- Very slow heart rate
- Confusion or agitation
- Headache or blurred vision
- Tremors or shakiness
- Rebound high blood pressure after stopping the treatment suddenly
- Seizures in rare cases
If you notice any severe symptoms, seek medical help right away. Intuniv’s long-term side effects are still being studied, so your doctor may recheck your progress over time.
Intuniv Missed Dose
What should I do if I miss a dose of Intuniv?
In case of Intuniv missed dose, take the next dose at your regular time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. If you miss two or more doses, contact your doctor. You may need to restart at a lower dose.
This helps reduce the risk of side effects and keeps your body used to the medication.
Overdose
What happens if you take too much Intuniv?
Taking too much Intuniv may cause serious symptoms such as:
- Drowsiness or extreme tiredness
- Low blood pressure
- Slow heart rate
- Trouble breathing
- Small pupils (miosis)
- Lethargy or fainting
If you think you have taken too much, go to the nearest hospital. An Intuniv overdose needs fast medical attention, especially in children.
Symptoms may appear slowly, so it is important to monitor the person for at least 24 hours.
Warnings
- Patients taking Intuniv should monitor their blood pressure regularly because this medication can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure or a slow heart rate.
- Some people may experience dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up too quickly.
- People with heart problems or low blood pressure should use this medication with caution.
- Drowsiness and sedation are common side effects and may worsen if taken with alcohol or other sleep-inducing medications.
- Patients should avoid driving or using heavy machinery until they know how Intuniv affects them.
- Suddenly stopping Intuniv can lead to rebound high blood pressure, which may cause headaches, agitation, or even seizures.
- Intuniv may cause heart rhythm issues in some patients, especially when combined with medications that slow the heart rate.
- Children and older adults may be more sensitive to side effects such as low blood pressure, drowsiness, and mood changes.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor before taking this medication to avoid potential risks to the baby.
- Patients should not take other forms of guanfacine at the same time as Intuniv to prevent overdose or increased side effects.
Safety Precautions
- Patients should inform their doctor about any history of heart disease, kidney or liver problems, or mental health conditions.
- Avoid drinking alcohol during treatment because it may worsen dizziness and drowsiness.
- Drink enough fluids and avoid overheating to prevent fainting or low blood pressure.
- Tell your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or herbal products you are using.
- Children taking Intuniv should be monitored regularly for any changes in mood or behavior.
- Older adults are at a higher risk of falling due to dizziness or slow reaction time caused by Intuniv.
- Patients scheduled for surgery should inform their medical team that they are taking Intuniv.
- Do not share this medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
- Follow your full ADHD treatment plan, including behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes.
- Always swallow Intuniv whole and avoid crushing or chewing the tablets.
Contraindications
Patients who are allergic to guanfacine or any of the inactive ingredients in Intuniv should not use this medication. Hypersensitivity reactions can be serious or life-threatening. People with a known intolerance to guanfacine should speak with their doctor before starting treatment.
Interactions
Some drugs can change how Intuniv works or increase the chance of side effects. Below is a list of medications and substances that may interact with Intuniv:
- Amitriptyline
- Amoxapine
- Clomipramine
- Desipramine
- Doxepin
- Imipramine
- Lofepramine
- Maprotiline
- Nortriptyline
- Protriptyline
- Trazodone
- Trimipramine
- Apalutamide
- Ceritinib
- Ivosidenib
- Lorlatinib
- Chloramphenicol
- Cobicistat
- Fexinidazole
- Mifepristone
- Tucatinib
- Voxelotor
- Thioridazine
- Thiothixene
- Timolol
- Tipranavir
- Trifluoperazine
- Valproic acid
- Verapamil
- Voriconazole
- Xipamide
- Ziprasidone
- Zotepine
- Rucaparib
- Saquinavir
- Schisandra
- Secobarbital
- Sertraline
- Sofosbuvir velpatasvir
- St Johns Wort
- Stiripentol
- Tadalafil
- Tazemetostat
- Tecovirimat
- Chlorpropamide
- Cornsilk
- Cyclophosphamide
- Danazol
- Drospirenone
- Esmolol
- Forskolin
- Glimepiride
- Glipizide
- Glyburide
- Insulin aspart
- Insulin detemir
- Insulin glargine
- Sitagliptin
- Sotalol
- Tizanidine
- Tolazamide
- Tolbutamide
- Treprostinil
- Vildagliptin
Storage Information
Store Intuniv tablets at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius or 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can store it in places where the temperature ranges from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius (59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) for short periods. Keep the medication in a dry place and away from heat, light, and moisture.
Store it in its original container and out of reach of children and pets. Do not use the tablets after the expiration date.
Alternatives
Some patients may not respond well to Intuniv or may experience side effects. In these cases, other ADHD medications can be used as alternatives. These options include Vyvanse, Adderall, and Concerta, which are stimulant and non-stimulant treatments.
Alternatives to Intuniv:
- Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine)
- Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)
- Strattera (atomoxetine)
- Concerta (methylphenidate)
- Azstarys (dextroamphetamine / serdexmethylphenidate)
- Qelbree (viloxazine)
- Ritalin (methylphenidate)
- Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
- Kapvay (clonidine extended-release)
Cost & Discounts
Use the promo code PGSAVE10 at checkout on your first order of Intuniv to get a 10% discount.
Just enter the code in the promo box before you complete purchase. Your savings will apply instantly.
Enjoy a smarter, more affordable way to manage ADHD treatment with Pharma Giant.
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You can even order a 3-month supply to save more. Your prescriptions are always doctor-approved and pharmacist-verified. We never ship anything without making sure it is safe, authentic, and right for you.
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Disclaimer
Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.





