Guanfacine Addiction, Treatment & Side Effects

Guanfacine Side Effects: Overdose, Withdrawal, and Treatment

First developed as a treatment for high blood pressure, Guanfacine is now commonly prescribed under brand names like Intuniv and Tenex to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), particularly in children and adolescents. The medication works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that help regulate attention, impulsivity, and behavioral control. It can help improve focus, reduce hyperactivity, and decrease impulsive behaviors in people with ADHD. Understanding the side effects of guanfacine is crucial for patients as it helps them make informed decisions about their mental health treatment and recognize when medical attention may be needed.

Unlike stimulant ADHD medications such as methylphenidate or amphetamines, guanfacine is not a controlled substance and is not considered to have significant potential for abuse or dependence. However, patients should not suddenly stop taking guanfacine as this can lead to rebound hypertension and other withdrawal effects. In this article, we’ll explain how the medication can cause side effects and signs to be aware of to avoid abuse and overuse.

Can Guanfacine Make You Pass Out?

Guanfacine can potentially cause fainting or near-fainting episodes, primarily because it lowers blood pressure as part of its mechanism of action. Passing out is more likely to occur when first starting the medication when the dose is increased, or if a person becomes dehydrated, stands up too quickly, or is exposed to heat for extended periods. While fainting is a notable side effect, it is not an extremely common occurrence when the medication is taken as prescribed and proper precautions are followed.

To minimize the risk of fainting, patients taking these non-addictive medication options should begin on a low dose and gradually increase it as needed. Patients should stay well-hydrated and take precautions when making sudden movements. If someone experiences dizziness, lightheadedness, or feels like they might faint while taking guanfacine, they should rest and contact their healthcare provider. These symptoms often improve as the body adjusts to the medication, but in some cases, the dosage may need to be adjusted or the treatment plan reconsidered.

Can Guanfacine Affect Sleep?

Guanfacine can significantly impact a person’s sleep patterns, but its effects on sleep can vary depending on the patient. Many users, particularly children and adolescents, experience increased drowsiness, especially during the initial weeks of treatment. This drowsiness can cause enough issues that it is recommended to take the medication in the evening to help align these sedating effects with natural sleep times. Some studies have suggested that guanfacine may actually improve sleep quality in ADHD patients by helping to regulate the sleep cycle and reducing the sleep disruptions that are common in people with ADHD.

However, sleep-related side effects aren’t always positive. Some users report experiencing sleep disturbances, including insomnia or changes in sleep patterns, particularly if the medication is taken at different times of day. The timing of the dose can be crucial as taking it too late in the evening might result in excessive morning drowsiness while taking it too early might lead to sleepiness during the day and sleep difficulties at night.

Can Guanfacine Cause Low Heart Rate?

Guanfacine can significantly affect heart rate due to its impact on the sympathetic nervous system. When guanfacine binds to α2A receptors in the brainstem, it reduces sympathetic outflow, which leads to decreased norepinephrine release throughout the body. As a result, the heart rate naturally decreases as there is less stimulation to maintain a higher heart rate.

The lowering of the heart rate while taking guanfacine typically develops gradually over several days to weeks as the medication reaches a steady state in the body. This effect is dependent on the dosage, with higher doses more likely to cause more significant reductions in heart rate. The lowering effect is generally most pronounced during the initial weeks of treatment or after dose increases. While many patients develop some tolerance to this effect over time, some degree of reduced heart rate often persists throughout treatment.

Can Guaifenesin Cause Blurred Vision?

Yes, guaifenesin can potentially cause blurred vision as a side effect, though this is relatively uncommon. The side effect is related to its mild anticholinergic properties, which can affect the muscles that control the focusing of the eyes. This effect is usually temporary and resolves once the medication is cleared from the system. If someone experiences persistent blurred vision while taking guaifenesin, they should contact their healthcare provider, as it could indicate a need to adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication, especially if the blurred vision is severe or accompanied by other visual disturbances.

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

Find Ways to Manage the Side Effects of Guanfacine With Support From Muse Treatment

While the drug may not be at the top of the list of most addictive drugs, Guanfacine is still a prescription medication with the potential for abuse. For anyone experiencing the side effects of guanfacine or developing a prescription drug dependence, Muse Treatment in Los Angeles provides comprehensive support for patients experiencing side effects from guanfacine through a combination of medical supervision and therapeutic interventions. Our medical professionals can closely monitor vital signs, particularly heart rate and blood pressure, which are commonly affected by guanfacine. Muse Treatment can also assess for any interactions between guanfacine and other medications being used in addiction treatment, ensuring a safe and effective treatment protocol.

Muse Treatment’s mental health and addiction treatment professionals can also help patients cope with the psychological aspects of dealing with side effects, which may include fatigue, dizziness, or mood changes. Through individual counseling and group therapy sessions, patients can learn coping strategies to manage these side effects while staying committed to their recovery goals. Please call Muse Treatment in Los Angeles at 800-426-1818 to explore treatment options.

External Sources

• Mayo Clinic: Guanfacine (oral route)
• Cleveland Clinic: Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets
• National Library of Medicine: Guanfacine effects on stress, drug craving and prefrontal activation