Side Effects of guanfacine: A Synthesis of Findings from 30 Studies

  1. Home
  2. Side Effects of guanfacine
This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Side Effects of guanfacine: A Synthesis of Findings from 30 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician. If you have concerns about "Side Effects of guanfacine: A Synthesis of Findings from 30 Studies", please consult your doctor.

For NLM copyright information, please see Link to NLM Copyright Page
PubMed data is obtained via Hugging Face Datasets: Link to DatasetPlease check the disclaimer.
This page's analysis is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).
Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Guanfacine is a non-stimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Studies have shown that guanfacine can improve ADHD symptoms and other functional outcomes, such as quality of life, academic performance, and rates of accidents and injuries. 3

Guanfacine may be used in place of stimulant medications like methylphenidate for ADHD treatment, or when those stimulant medications aren't effective. 28

Guanfacine has been shown to have fewer side effects and better tolerability compared to other ADHD medications. 3

Reasons for Side Effects

Guanfacine is an alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist, meaning it binds to these receptors and inhibits the release of neurotransmitters. This action is believed to improve the inattention and hyperactivity symptoms of ADHD. 23

The side effects of guanfacine are thought to be due to this inhibition of neurotransmitter release. The specific side effects vary depending on the dose of the medication, the individual's body chemistry, and other factors. 23

Common Side Effects

Drowsiness

A common side effect of guanfacine is drowsiness. This side effect can be more pronounced if the dose of the medication is increased. 6

Low Blood Pressure

Guanfacine can cause low blood pressure. This side effect can be more pronounced if the dose of the medication is increased. 12

Dry Mouth

Guanfacine can cause dry mouth. 6

Fatigue

Guanfacine can cause fatigue. 21

Dizziness

Guanfacine can cause dizziness. 6

Constipation

Guanfacine can cause constipation. 6

Loss of Appetite

Guanfacine can cause loss of appetite. 6

Insomnia

Guanfacine can cause insomnia. 6

Side Effect Management

Drowsiness

The time of day guanfacine is taken can be adjusted to reduce drowsiness. 6

Low Blood Pressure

Care should be taken when changing positions suddenly, such as standing up. If necessary, measures to address low blood pressure, such as drinking plenty of fluids, should be taken under the guidance of a doctor. 12

Dry Mouth

Drinking fluids frequently is necessary. 6

Fatigue

It's important to make sure you're getting enough rest and sleep. 21

Dizziness

Care should be taken when changing positions suddenly, such as standing up. 6

Constipation

It's important to eat a diet high in fiber and drink plenty of fluids to address constipation. 6

Loss of Appetite

It's important to pay attention to your diet and ensure you're getting a balanced diet. 6

Insomnia

It's important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed to address insomnia. 6

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities

Many studies have shown that guanfacine can improve ADHD symptoms. 3 28

Many studies have shown that guanfacine has fewer side effects and better tolerability compared to other ADHD medications. 3 28

Differences

Some studies have shown that guanfacine can be effective when stimulant medications like methylphenidate aren't effective. 28

Some studies have shown that guanfacine has a higher risk of certain side effects, such as low blood pressure, compared to other ADHD medications. 12

Implications for Everyday Life

Guanfacine should be taken under the guidance of a doctor to improve ADHD symptoms. 3

It's important to talk to your doctor about your health condition and any other medications you're taking before taking guanfacine. 3

If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking guanfacine, consult your doctor immediately. 3

Limitations of Current Research

Further research is needed to fully understand the effects and safety of guanfacine. 3

The effects of guanfacine can vary from person to person. 24

Future Research Directions

Studies are needed to evaluate the long-term effects and safety of guanfacine. 3

Research is needed to find ways to enhance the effectiveness of guanfacine. 3

Studies are needed to compare the effectiveness of guanfacine to other ADHD medications. 3

Conclusion

Guanfacine is a non-stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. Many studies have shown that guanfacine can improve ADHD symptoms and other functional outcomes. 3 28

Guanfacine has been shown to have fewer side effects and better tolerability compared to other ADHD medications. 3 28

The effects of guanfacine can vary from person to person. Consult your doctor before taking guanfacine. 3 24

Keywords
Benefit Keywords
Mood improvement
1
Effective for heroin detoxification
2
Improve academic performance
Improve quality of life
Reduce accidents and injuries
Treat ADHD symptoms
3
Hypertension treatment
4
Improved memory
No hypotensive or sedating side effects
5
ADHD treatment safety
Effective drugs
Well tolerated
6
Hypotension
7
Effective antihypertensive
Favorable side effects profile
8
Hypertension treatment
9
Treat Tourette's syndrome
10
Adderall treatment
11
Improved sleep
Reduced irritability
12
Treat ADHD
Treat tic disorders
13
ADHD treatment
Cognitive enhancement
14
Hypertension treatment
15
ADHD treatment
Improved symptoms
16
Improved ADHD symptoms
Improved school performance
Improved social interactions
18
Improved autism outcomes
Reduced irritability
19
Blood pressure normalization
20
ADHD symptom reduction
Improved attention
21
Self-injurious behavior treatment
22
Reversal of cognitive impairment
23
ASD treatment
24
ADHD headache management
25
ADHD treatment
26
Antihypertensive activity
27
GXR for ADHD
Improved ADHD symptoms
28
ADHD treatment
Multidisciplinary care
29
Improved ADHD symptoms
Reduced adverse effects
30
Risk Keywords
Hypotensive effect
2
Adverse effects
Dry mouth
Sedation
4
Hypotension
Sedation
5
Cardiovascular AEs
Decreased appetite
Growth decrease
Psychiatric AEs
Sleep impact
6
Side effects
7
Unfavorable side effects profile
8
Side effects
10
Trichotillomania
11
Hypotension
12
Side effects
13
Bone metabolism
Cell migration
14
Mood changes
Psychotic symptoms
Tics
16
Increased seizure risk
17
Side effects
Toxicomania
Treatment resistance
18
Metabolic side effects
Weight gain
19
Fatigue
21
Hypotensive side effects
Sedative side effects
23
Atomoxetine headache
Guanfacine headache
Methylphenidate headache
25
Cardiovascular effects
Neurological effects
Toxicity
26
Reflex tachycardia
Sedation
27
Addiction potential
Methylphenidate side effects
29
Adverse effects
Withdrawal due to lack of efficacy
30
Literature analysis of 30 papers
Positive Content
27
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
2
Article Type
3
2
2
11
30
1.

Treatment of age-associated memory impairment with guanfacine.

Author: McEnteeW J, CrookT H, JenkynL R, PetrieW, LarrabeeG J, CoffeyD J

Mood improvement

Guanfacine, an alpha2 adrenergic agonist, showed modest mood-improving effects but had no significant effects on learning and memory in a study of persons with age-associated memory impairment (AAMI).

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

Efficacy of clonidine, guanfacine and methadone in the rapid detoxification of heroin addicts: a controlled clinical trial.

Author: SanL, CamíJ, PeriJ M, MataR, PortaM

Effective for heroin detoxification
Hypotensive effect

Methadone was more effective than clonidine and guanfacine in rapid detoxification of heroin inpatients, with fewer withdrawal symptoms.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

4.

From alpha and beta to I1: an overview of sympathetic receptors involved in blood pressure control targets for drug treatment.

Author: van ZwietenP A

Hypertension treatment
Adverse effects
Dry mouth
Sedation

Centrally acting antihypertensives, such as clonidine, guanfacine, and alpha-methyldopa, act on alpha-adrenoceptors and imidazoline receptors in the CNS to reduce blood pressure. Imidazoline receptor agonists, such as moxonidine and rilmenidine, may have a more favorable pattern of side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

5.

Behavioral and receptor binding analysis of the alpha 2-adrenergic agonist, 5-bromo-6 [2-imidazoline-2-yl amino] quinoxaline (UK-14304): evidence for cognitive enhancement at an alpha 2-adrenoceptor subtype.

Author: ArnstenA F, LeslieF M

Improved memory
No hypotensive or sedating side effects
Hypotension
Sedation

UK-14304 is an alpha 2-agonist that has been shown to improve memory in aged monkeys. The drug has a slightly higher affinity for the Ri than the Rs site.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

9.

Different types of centrally acting antihypertensives and their targets in the central nervous system.

Author: van ZwietenP A, ChalmersJ P

Hypertension treatment

This survey outlines the various pathways, neurotransmitters, and receptors involved in the central regulation of blood pressure and discusses different types of centrally acting antihypertensives.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

12.

Guanfacine decreases symptoms of cannabis withdrawal in daily cannabis smokers.

Author: HaneyMargaret, CooperZiva D, BediGillinder, HerrmannEvan, ComerSandra D, ReedStephanie Collins, FoltinRichard W, LevinFrances R

Improved sleep
Reduced irritability
Hypotension

Guanfacine, an FDA-approved drug, may be a promising treatment for cannabis withdrawal symptoms, particularly sleep disruption and irritability.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

13.

Pharmacologic treatment of tic disorders.

Author: ScahillL, ChappellP B, KingR A, LeckmanJ F

Treat ADHD
Treat tic disorders
Side effects

There are several treatment options for tic disorders, including traditional neuroleptics, atypical neuroleptics, and non-neuroleptic medications. Treatment should be tailored to the individual patient and may include addressing co-occurring conditions such as ADHD.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

15.

Centrally acting antihypertensive drugs. Present and future.

Author: van ZwietenP A

Hypertension treatment

Moxonidine and rilmenidine, new centrally acting antihypertensives, are compared to classic drugs like clonidine. Moxonidine and rilmenidine have better side-effect profiles.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

16.

Pharmacotherapy for ADHD in children and adolescents: A summary and overview of different European guidelines.

Author: Van VyveL, DierckxB, LimC G, DanckaertsM, KochB, HägeA, BanaschewskiT

ADHD treatment
Improved symptoms
Mood changes
Psychotic symptoms
Tics

This study reviews pharmacological treatment options for ADHD in children and adolescents and highlights the importance of multimodal approaches. It compares treatment guidelines across different European countries and identifies discrepancies in medication selection and sequencing.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

17.

Association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and epilepsy in pediatric populations.

Author: HamodaHesham M, GuildDanielle J, GumlakSarah, TraversBrian H, Gonzalez-HeydrichJoseph

Increased seizure risk

There is a bidirectional relationship between ADHD and epilepsy, and methylphenidate has been found to be effective and safe in treating ADHD comorbid with epilepsy.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

21.

Comparing guanfacine and dextroamphetamine for the treatment of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Author: TaylorF B, RussoJ

ADHD symptom reduction
Improved attention
Fatigue

Guanfacine may be a well-tolerated treatment option for adult ADHD.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

22.

Use of guanfacine to control self-injurious behavior in two rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) and one baboon (Papio anubis).

Author: MacyJ D, BeattieT A, MorgensternS E, ArnstenA F

Self-injurious behavior treatment

This study assessed the use of guanfacine, an alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist, as a novel therapeutic strategy for self-injurious behavior (SIB) in non-human primates.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

25.

Headache in ADHD as comorbidity and a side effect of medications: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: PanPei-Yin, JonssonUlf, Şahpazoğlu ÇakmakSabriye Selin, HägeAlexander, HohmannSarah, Nobel NorrmanHjalmar, BuitelaarJan K, BanaschewskiTobias, CorteseSamuele, CoghillDavid, BölteSven

ADHD headache management
Atomoxetine headache
Guanfacine headache
Methylphenidate headache

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the co-occurrence of headache in children with ADHD, and the effects of ADHD medications on headache. The review found a significant association between headache and ADHD, and that three ADHD medications were associated with increased headache compared to placebo.

Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

27.

Antihypertensive drugs interacting with alpha- and beta-adrenoceptors. A review of basic pharmacology.

Author: van ZwietenP A

Antihypertensive activity
Reflex tachycardia
Sedation

Various alpha and beta-adrenoceptor antagonists and agonists effectively reduce blood pressure. Alpha 1-adrenoceptor blockers are useful antihypertensives, while central alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonists reduce sympathetic activity. Beta-blockers are widely used but their mechanism of action remains unclear.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

30.

An Evaluation on the Efficacy and Safety of Treatments for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents: a Comparison of Multiple Treatments.

Author: LiYing, GaoJie, HeShu, ZhangYan, WangQiwei

Improved ADHD symptoms
Reduced adverse effects
Adverse effects
Withdrawal due to lack of efficacy

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) and methylphenidate (MPH) are the most effective medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. LDX has a lower rate of adverse effects, while MPH has the lowest incidence of side effects. Atomoxetine (ATX) has a lower risk of withdrawal, but its efficacy may be lower than LDX and MPH.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

This site uses cookies. Visit our privacy policy page or click the link in any footer for more information and to change your preferences.