Guanfacine (Intuniv)

What the word means

Guanfacine is the drug. Intuniv is the brand of the long-acting version used for ADHD.

Like propranolol, it started life as a blood pressure medication and found a second career. It’s a non-stimulant treatment for ADHD, used either on its own or added alongside a stimulant, which is a common and sensible combination rather than a sign that something has gone wrong.

Where it earns its place is the part of ADHD that stimulants often don’t touch: the irritability, the short fuse, the emotional flare-ups. It isn’t a controlled substance. It tends to be sedating, particularly at first.

Where to read the full guide

Shrinktionary defines the word.

Read the full guanfacine guide at PsychiatryRx, which covers dosing, side effects, and how it’s combined with stimulants.

Related terms you’ll see next

• ADHD
• Stimulant
• Atomoxetine
• Emotional dysregulation

When to seek professional care

Tell your prescriber about heavy drowsiness, dizziness on standing, or a very slow heartbeat. Don’t stop it abruptly after regular use, since blood pressure can rebound. If sedation is making school or work impossible, say so, because timing and dose can usually be adjusted. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, get help right away by calling 911, or call or text 988 in the US to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

<blockquote>
  <p><strong>Guanfacine (Intuniv):</strong> Guanfacine is a non-stimulant ADHD medication, sold as Intuniv. It's often used on its own or added to a stimulant, and it can help with the irritability and emotional flare-ups that come with ADHD.</p>
  <p>&mdash; <a href="https://shrinktionary.com/terms/guanfacine/">Shrinktionary</a>, a plain-English mental health dictionary, medically reviewed by a board certified psychiatrist.</p>
</blockquote>