Guanfacine Addiction, Treatment & Side Effects

Guanfacine Abuse and Addiction

At Muse treatment center, we strive to provide leading addiction treatment methods that will support our patients in safely and effectively overcoming drug addiction. Our comprehensive treatment plans provide patients with an opportunity to gain perspective on what has been the driving force for their addictive behaviors by exploring the deep seeded emotions and traumas that have influenced their ability to respond to negative situations or emotions. Our whole-person integrated approach to healing and addiction recovery will allow you to safely heal from substance abuse within your body, mind, and spirit. Drug addiction comes in many forms and can happen to anyone which is why we work with our patients to alleviate any feelings of shame or guilt about your addiction by empowering you to see your strength and resilience as you embark on a new life journey of addiction recovery. 

What is Guanfacine?

Guanfacine is a prescription non-stimulant medication commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Guanfacine Intuniv is provided to patients in pill form and also has extended-release forms that will support individuals for longer periods of time. The dosage of this medication will vary depending on the individual and recommendations from your general practitioner. As you take guanfacine, your doctor may slowly increase the dose to find an appropriate dose that doesn’t produce severe side effects. 

Guanfacine Effects

Guanfacine, also known by the brand name Intuniv, works by activating receptors on the nerve that produces adrenaline at their neurotransmitter. The activation of the nerves works to lessen the activity of adrenaline leading to a significant decrease in hyperactivity, insomnia, drive, impulsivity, and emotional overreaction. Unlike other ADHD medications, guanfacine is not a controlled substance and does not run the risk of becoming addictive like other stimulant medications. 

Signs of Guanfacine Abuse and Addiction

Due to guanfacine Intuniv being a non-stimulant medication, there are little to no risks of individuals becoming addicted to it, unlike other ADHD medications that are stimulant based. Individuals taking guanfacine will be able to treat their symptoms without the potential of becoming high or experiencing shifts in perception or mood due to prescription medication of guanfacine. However, taking guanfacine can produce the following side effects: 

• Drowsiness
• Sedation
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Changes in sleep patterns 
• Low blood pressure 
• Nausea 
• Stomach pains 
• Fainting 
• Low heart rate 

Guanfacine Withdrawal Symptoms

Before ending your use of guanfacine, you should speak with your doctor first to ensure that you safely reduce your use of guanfacine without experiencing any withdrawal symptoms or side effects.  Individuals that stop taking guanfacine Intuniv may experience the following withdrawal symptoms:

• Headaches
• Agitation
• Nervousness
• The rapid increase in blood pressure 
• Tremors 

As you experience the onset of any withdrawal symptoms, it is important that you consult with your doctor to ensure that your safety, physical health, and mental health are maintained. 

Long Term Side Effects of Guanfacine Abuse

In some cases, for patients taking guanfacine Intuniv for a long-term period of time, there can be a risk of developing the following long-term side effects and adverse reactions can occur: 

• Hypotension 
• Bradycardia 
• Syncope
• Sedation
• Somnolence 
• Rebound hypertension 
• Cardiac conduction abnormalities 

Guanfacine Addiction Treatment

At Muse treatment centers, we offer a comprehensive treatment plan for patients that enter our recovery center. Whether you are dealing with substance abuse or mental health conditions such as ADHD, we have appropriate treatment methods to help restore your physical and psychological health. Our team will monitor your progress as you stop your use of drugs and alcohol along with any prescription medications with the guidance and support of our in-house medical team. Your health and safety are our top priority and we will be alongside you every step of the way as you heal from addiction and gain stability in your mental health. Contact us today to hear more about the treatment programs offered within our recovery center and start your journey towards health and stability today.