Guanfacine ER 1 mg Tablet, Extended Release, 30-count
🆔 Identity & classification
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🏷️ RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Central alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist class.
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🏭 Manufacturer & labeler
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🩺 Clinical
- It's used for both, depending on which form you have. The regular (immediate-release) tablet is prescribed for high blood pressure. The extended-release version — brand name Intuni...
- What is guanfacine actually used for — is it for ADHD or blood pressure?
- No, Intuniv is not a stimulant at all. It works on a different part of the brain than medications like Adderall or Ritalin. That's actually one reason it's sometimes used alongside...
- My child takes Intuniv for ADHD — is it a stimulant?
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💊 What it looks like
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🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
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UNII 3SY5LH9PMK
Anhydrous lactose is a milk sugar with no water content. It acts as a filler and binder in tablets and capsules, adding bulk and helping ingredients stick together.
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UNII 88XHZ13131
Fumaric acid is an organic acid used in medications as a buffer and pH regulator. It helps maintain the proper acidity level in the medicine and may aid in tablet disintegration.
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UNII Z78RG6M2N2
Hypromellose 2208 is a plant-derived thickening agent used as a binder and film-coating material in tablets and capsules. It helps hold ingredients together and creates a protective coating that controls how quickly the medicine dissolves.
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UNII 70097M6I30
Magnesium stearate is a salt made from magnesium and stearic acid, a fatty substance. It's used in tablets and capsules as a lubricant and glidant to help ingredients flow smoothly during manufacturing and prevent sticking.
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UNII ETJ7Z6XBU4
Silicon dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral used as a glidant and anti-caking agent. It helps powder ingredients flow smoothly and prevents clumping during manufacturing and storage.
5 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
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ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.Inactive ingredient FAQ
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💲 Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per each | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | Not in the retail survey — common for institutional, discontinued, or low-volume packs. | |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | No recent Medicaid claims on file for this NDC — rare and low-volume NDCs are suppressed in the public data. | |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $0.4957 | $14.87 / 30 tablets |
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🔁 Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guanfacine 1 mg 63304-0924-01 | Sun | 100 tablets | $0.132 | — | Discontinued | — |
| guanfacine 1 mg 00228-2850-11 | Actavis | 100 tablets | $0.133 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Guanfacine Extended-Release 1 mg 24979-0533-01 | Upsher-Smith | 100 tablets | $0.133 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 29300-0460-01 | Unichem | 100 tablets | $0.133 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Guanfacine extended-release 1 mg 60505-3927-01 | Apotex | 100 tablets | $0.133 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 62332-0745-31 | Alembic | 100 tablets | $0.133 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 70436-0039-01 | Slate | 100 tablets | $0.133 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 72266-0255-55 | Fosun | 100 tablets | $0.133 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 16714-0190-01 | NORTHSTAR | 100 tablets | $0.228 | — | FDA listed | — |
| Intuniv 1 mg 54092-0513-02 | Takeda | 100 tablets | $9.386 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| guanfacine 1 mg 42291-0324-01 | AvKARE | 100 tablets | — | AB | Discontinued | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 46708-0745-31 | Alembic | 100 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 51407-0952-01 | Golden | 100 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine Extended-Release 1 mg 60429-0960-01 | Golden | 100 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 60760-0863-30 | St. | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 63629-8161-01 | Bryant | 30 tablets | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine Extended-Release 1 mg 70518-2771-00 | REMEDYREPACK | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 70518-4539-00 | REMEDYREPACK | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine Extended-Release 1 mg 71205-0944-00 | Proficient | 100 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 71335-2379-01 | Bryant | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine extended-release 1 mg 71335-3078-01 | Bryant | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 72162-1798-01 | Bryant | 100 tablets | — | — | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine ER 1 mgthis 72189-0469-30 | Direct_Rx | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine ER 1 mg 72189-0597-30 | Direct_rx | 30 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| Guanfacine 1 mg 72888-0224-00 | Advagen | 1000 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
⏳ Availability & generic status
This product is an FDA-approved generic. Other versions of the same drug are listed under Therapeutic equivalents, least expensive first.
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📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72189-0469-30 You're viewing this | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (72189-469-30) | 2023-05-04 | Active |
🧭 About this NDC listing & data coverage
What data is (and isn’t) available for this NDC — tap to expand
| NDC identity (package / product / labeler codes) | ✓ Available |
| Labeler | ✓ Available |
| Product & package description | ✓ Available |
| Marketing category & status | ✓ Available |
| Active ingredient / dosage form / route | ✓ Available |
| FDA label (SPL via DailyMed) | ✓ Available |
| Package photos | ✓ Available |
| Inactive ingredients (structured) | ✓ Available |
| NADAC pharmacy acquisition price (CMS) | — Not published for this NDC CMS publishes NADAC only for NDCs reported in its retail-pharmacy survey. |
| Orange Book / therapeutic-equivalence data | ✓ Available |
| HCPCS J-code billing crosswalk | — Not published for this NDC Most self-administered / retail products have no J-code — that is normal. |
| Medicaid utilization (CMS SDUD) | — Not published for this NDC CMS reports utilization only for NDCs with Medicaid claims above its privacy threshold. |
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📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
Guanfacine extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as monotherapy and as adjunctive therapy to stimulant medications [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14)].
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
2.1General Instruction for Use Swallow tablets whole. Do not crush, chew, or break tablets because this will increase the rate of guanfacine release. Do not administer with high fat meals, due to increased exposure.
2.2Dose Selection Take guanfacine extended-release tablets orally once daily, either in the morning or evening, at approximately the same time each day. Begin at a dose of 1 mg/day, and adjust in increments of no more than 1 mg/week. In monotherapy clinical trials, there was dose- and exposure-related clinical improvement as well as risks for several clinically significant adverse reactions (hypotension, bradycardia, sedative events).
To balance the exposure-related potential benefits and risks, the recommended target dose range depending on clinical response and tolerability for guanfacine extended-release tablets is 0.05 to 0.12 mg/kg/day (total daily dose between 1 to 7 mg) (see Table 1). Table 1: Recommended Target Dose Range for Therapy with Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets Weight Target dose range (0.05 - 0.12 mg/kg/day) 25-33.9 kg 2-3 mg/day 34-41.4 kg 2-4 mg/day 41.5-49.4 kg 3-5 mg/day 49.5-58.4 kg 3-6 mg/day 58.5-91 kg 4-7 mg/day >91 kg 5-7 mg/day Doses above 4 mg/day have not been evaluated in children (ages 6 to12 years) and doses above 7 mg/day have not been evaluated in adolescents (ages 13 to 17 years) In the adjunctive trial which evaluated guanfacine extended-release tablets treatment with psychostimulants, the majority of patients reached optimal doses in the 0.05 to 0.12 mg/kg/day range.
Doses above 4 mg/day have not been studied in adjunctive trials.
2.3Switching from Immediate-Release Guanfacine to Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets If switching from immediate-release guanfacine, discontinue that treatment, and titrate with guanfacine extended-release tablets following above recommended schedule. Do not substitute for immediate-release guanfacine tablets on a milligram-per-milligram basis, because of differing pharmacokinetic profiles. Guanfacine extended-release tablets have significantly reduced Cmax (60% lower), bioavailability (43% lower), and a delayed Tmax (3 hours later) compared to those of the same dose of immediate-release guanfacine [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY (12.3)].
2.4Maintenance Treatment Pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Healthcare providers should periodically re-evaluate the long-term use of guanfacine extended-release tablets, and adjust weight-based dosage as needed. The majority of children and adolescents reach optimal doses in the 0.05 to 0.12 mg/kg/day range.
Doses above 4 mg/day have not been evaluated in children (ages 6 to 12 years) and above 7 mg/day have not been evaluated in adolescents (ages 13 to 17 years) [see Clinical Studies (14)].
2.5Discontinuation of Treatment Following discontinuation of guanfacine extended-release tablets, patients may experience increases in blood pressure and heart rate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Adverse Reactions (6)]. Patients/caregivers should be instructed not to discontinue guanfacine extended-release tablets without consulting their health care provider. Monitor blood pressure and pulse when reducing the dose or discontinuing the drug.
Taper the daily dose in decrements of no more than 1 mg every 3 to 7 days to minimize the risk of rebound hypertension.
2.6Missed Doses When reinitiating patients to the previous maintenance dose after two or more missed consecutive doses, consider titration based on patient tolerability.
2.7Dosage Adjustment with Concomitant Use of Strong and Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors or Inducers Dosage adjustments for guanfacine extended-release tablets are recommended with concomitant use of strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole), or CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., carbamazepine) (Table 2) [see Drug Interactions (7)]. Table 2: Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets Dosage Adjustments for Patients Taking Concomitant CYP3A4 Inhibitors or Inducers C…
💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ▾
Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP 1 mg are white to off-white, round, biconvex tablets, engraved "APO" on one side, "GU1" on the other side. Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP 2 mg are white to off-white, oval shaped, biconvex tablets, engraved "APO" on one side, "GUA 2" on the other side. Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP 3 mg are green, round, biconvex tablets, engraved "APO" on one side, "GU3" on the other side.
Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP 4 mg are green, oval shaped, biconvex tablets, engraved "APO" on one side, "GUA 4" on the other side.
⛔ Contraindications ▾
Guanfacine extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with a history of a hypersensitivity reaction to guanfacine extended-release tablets or its inactive ingredients, or other products containing guanfacine. Rash and pruritus have been reported.
⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ▾
5.1Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Syncope Treatment with guanfacine extended-release tablets can cause dose-dependent decreases in blood pressure and heart rate. Decreases were less pronounced over time of treatment. Orthostatic hypotension and syncope have been reported [see ADVERSE REACTIONS (6.1)].
Measure heart rate and blood pressure prior to initiation of therapy, following dose increases, and periodically while on therapy. Titrate guanfacine extended-release tablets slowly in patients with a history of hypotension, and those with underlying conditions that may be worsened by hypotension and bradycardia; e.g., heart block, bradycardia, cardiovascular disease, vascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, or chronic renal failure. In patients who have a history of syncope or may have a condition that predisposes them to syncope, such as hypotension, orthostatic hypotension, bradycardia, or dehydration, advise patients to avoid becoming dehydrated or overheated.
Monitor blood pressure and heart rate, and adjust dosages accordingly in patients treated concomitantly with antihypertensives or other drugs that can reduce blood pressure or heart rate or increase the risk of syncope.
5.2Sedation and Somnolence Somnolence and sedation were commonly reported adverse reactions in clinical studies [see ADVERSE REACTIONS (6.1)]. Before using guanfacine extended-release tablets with other centrally active depressants, consider the potential for additive sedative effects. Caution patients against operating heavy equipment or driving until they know how they respond to treatment with guanfacine extended-release tablets.
Advise patients to avoid use with alcohol.
5.3Cardiac Conduction Abnormalities The sympatholytic action of guanfacine extended-release tablets may worsen sinus node dysfunction and atrioventricular (AV) block, especially in patients taking other sympatholytic drugs. Titrate guanfacine extended-release tablets slowly and monitor vital signs frequently in patients with cardiac conduction abnormalities or patients concomitantly treated with other sympatholytic drugs.
5.4Rebound Hypertension In post marketing experience, abrupt discontinuation of guanfacine extended-release tablets has resulted in clinically significant and persistent rebound hypertension above baseline levels and increases in heart rate. Hypertensive encephalopathy has also been reported in association with rebound hypertension with both guanfacine extended-release tablets and immediate release guanfacine [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. In these cases, high-dosage guanfacine was discontinued; concomitant stimulant use was also reported, which may potentially increase hypertensive response upon abrupt discontinuation of guanfacine.
Children commonly have gastrointestinal illnesses that lead to vomiting, and a resulting inability to take medications, so they may be especially at risk for rebound hypertension. To minimize the risk of rebound hypertension upon discontinuation, the total daily dose of guanfacine extended-release tablets should be tapered in decrements of no more than 1 mg every 3 to 7 days [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]. Blood pressure and heart rate should be monitored when reducing the dose or discontinuing guanfacine extended-release tablets.
If abrupt discontinuation occurs (especially with concomitant stimulant use), patients should be closely followed for rebound hypertension.
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hypotension, bradycardia, and syncope [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.1)] Sedation and somnolence [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.2)] Cardiac conduction abnormalities [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.3)] Rebound Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below reflect clinical trial exposure to guanfacine extended-release tablets in 2,825 patients. This includes 2,330 patients from completed studies in children and adolescents, ages 6 to 17 years and 495 patients in completed studies in adult healthy volunteers.
The mean duration of exposure of 446 patients that previously participated in two 2-year, open-label long-term studies was approximately 10 months. Fixed Dose Trials Table 3: Percentage of Patients Experiencing Most Common (≥5% and at least twice the rate for placebo) Adverse Reactions in Fixed Dose Studies 1 and 2 Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets (mg) Adverse Reaction Term Placebo (N=149) 1mg* (N=61) 2mg (N=150) 3mg (N=151) 4mg (N=151) All Doses of Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets (N=513) Somnolencea 11% 28% 30% 38% 51% 38% Fatigue 3% 10% 13% 17% 15% 14% Hypotensionb 3% 8% 5% 7% 8% 7% Dizziness 4% 5% 3% 7% 10% 6% Lethargy 3% 2% 3% 8% 7% 6% Nausea 2% 7% 5% 5% 6% 6% Dry mouth 1% 0% 1% 6% 7% 4% *The lowest dose of 1 mg used in Study 2 was not randomized to patients weighing more than 50 kg. a: The somnolence term includes somnolence, sedation, and hypersomnia. b: The hypotension term includes hypotension, diastolic hypotension, orthostatic hypotension, blood pressure decreased, blood pressure diastolic decreased, blood pressure systolic decreased.
Table 4: Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation (≥2% for all doses of Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets and >rate than in placebo) in Fixed Dose Studies 1 and 2 Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets (mg) Adverse Reaction Term Placebo (N=149) 1mg* (N=61) 2mg (N=150) 3mg (N=151) 4mg (N=151) All Doses of Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets (N=513) n (%) n (%) n (%) n (%) n (%) n (%) Total patients 4 (3%) 2 (3%) 10 (7%) 15 (10%) 27 (18%) 54 (11%) Somnolencea 1 (1%) 2 (3%) 5 (3%) 6 (4%) 17 (11%) 30 (6%) Fatigue 0 (0%) 0 (0%) 2 (1%) 2 (1%) 4 (3%) 8 (2%) Adverse reactions leading to discontinuation in ≥ 2% in any dose group but did not meet this criteria in all doses combined: hypotension (hypotension, diastolic hypotension, orthostatic hypotension, blood pressure decreased, blood pressure diastolic decreased, blood pressure systolic decreased), headache, and dizziness. * The lowest dose of 1 mg used in Study 2 was not randomized to patients weighing more than 50 kg. a: The somnolence term includes somnolence, sedation, and hypersomnia.
Table 5: Other Common Adverse Reactions (≥2% for all doses of Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets and >rate than in placebo) in Fixed Dose Studies 1 and 2 Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets (mg) Adverse Reaction Term Placebo (N=149) 1mg* (N=61) 2mg (N=150) 3mg (N=151) 4mg (N=151) All Doses of Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets (N=513) Headache 19% 26% 25% 16% 28% 23% Abdominal Paina 9% 10% 7% 11% 15% 11% Decreased Appetite 4% 5% 4% 9% 6% 6% Irritability 4% 5% 8% 3% 7% 6% Constipation 1% 2% 2% 3% 4% 3% Nightmareb 0% 0% 0% 3% 4% 2% Enuresisc 1% 0% 1% 3% 2% 2% Affect Labilityd 1% 2% 1% 3% 1% 2% Adverse reactions ≥2% for all doses of guanfacine extended-release tablets and >rate in placebo in any dose group but did not meet this criteria in all doses combined: insomnia (insomnia, initial insomnia, middle insomnia, terminal insomnia, sleep disorder), vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal/stomach discomfort (abdominal discomfort, epigastric discomfort, sto…
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
8.1Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to ADHD medications, including guanfacine extended-release tablets, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for ADHD Medications at 1-866-961-2388. Risk Summary Available data with guanfacine over decades of use in pregnant women have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes.
However, use of guanfacine in pregnant women over this time has been infrequent. In animal reproduction studies, rabbits and rats exposed to 3 and 4 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), respectively, showed no adverse outcomes. However, higher doses were associated with reduced fetal survival and maternal toxicity (see Data).
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Data Animal Data Reproduction studies conducted in rats have shown that guanfacine crosses the placenta. However, administration of guanfacine to rabbits and rats during organogenesis at 3 (rabbit) and 4 (rat) times the MRHD of 0.12 mg/kg/day on a mg/m2 basis resulted in no evidence of harm to the fetus. Higher doses (13.5 times the MRHD in both rabbits and rats) were associated with reduced fetal survival and maternal toxicity.
8.2Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of guanfacine in human milk or the effects on the breastfed infant. The effects on milk production are also unknown. Guanfacine is present in the milk of lactating rats (see Data).
If a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely that the drug will be present in human milk. If an infant is exposed to guanfacine through breastmilk, monitor for symptoms of hypotension and bradycardia such as sedation, lethargy and poor feeding (see Clinical Considerations). The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for guanfacine extended-release tablets and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from guanfacine extended-release tablets or from the underlying maternal condition.
Clinical Considerations Monitor breastfeeding infants exposed to guanfacine through breastmilk for sedation, lethargy, and poor feeding. Data Guanfacine was excreted in breast milk of lactating rats at a concentration comparable to that observed in blood, but slightly less than the concentration in plasma when administered following a single oral dose of 5 mg/kg. The concentration of drug in animal milk does not necessarily predict the concentration of drug in human milk.
8.4Pediatric Use Safety and efficacy of guanfacine extended-release tablets in pediatric patients less than 6 years of age have not been established. The efficacy of guanfacine extended-release tablets was studied for the treatment of ADHD in five controlled monotherapy clinical trials (up to 15 weeks in duration), one randomized withdrawal study and one controlled adjunctive trial with psychostimulants (8 weeks in duration) in children and adolescents ages 6 to 17 who met DSM-IV® criteria for ADHD [see ADVERSE REACTIONS (6) and CLINICAL STUDIES (14)].
Animal Data In studies in juvenile rats, guanfacine alone produced a slight delay in sexual maturation in males and females at 2 to 3 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD). Guanfacine in combination with methylphenidate produced a slight delay in sexual maturation and decreased growth as measured by a decrease in bone length in males at a dose of guanfacine comparable to the MRHD and a dose of methylphenidate approximately 4 times the…
🆘 Overdosage ▾
Symptoms Postmarketing reports of guanfacine overdosage indicate that hypotension, drowsiness, lethargy, and bradycardia have been observed following overdose. Initial hypertension may develop early and may be followed by hypotension. Similar symptoms have been described in voluntary reports to the American Association of Poison Control Center’s National Poison Data System.
Miosis of the pupils may be noted on examination. No fatal overdoses of guanfacine have been reported in published literature. Treatment Consult a Certified Poison Control Center by calling 1-800-222-1222 for up-to-date guidance and advice.
Management of guanfacine extended-release tablets overdose should include monitoring for and the treatment of initial hypertension, if that occurs, as well as hypotension, bradycardia, lethargy and respiratory depression. Children and adolescents who develop lethargy should be observed for the development of more serious toxicity including coma, bradycardia and hypotension for up to 24 hours, due to the possibility of delayed onset hypotension.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
12.1Mechanism of Action Guanfacine is a central alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist. Guanfacine is not a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. The mechanism of action of guanfacine in ADHD is not known.
12.2Pharmacodynamics Guanfacine is a selective central alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist in that it has a 15 to 20 times higher affinity for this receptor subtype than for the alpha2B or alpha2C subtypes. Guanfacine is a known antihypertensive agent. By stimulating central alpha2A-adrenergic receptors, guanfacine reduces sympathetic nerve impulses from the vasomotor center to the heart and blood vessels.
This results in a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance and a reduction in heart rate. In a thorough QT study, the administration of two dose levels of immediate-release guanfacine (4 mg and 8 mg) produced concentrations approximately 2 to 4 times the concentrations observed with the maximum recommended dose of guanfacine extended-release tablets of 0.12 mg/kg. Guanfacine was not shown to prolong the QTc interval to any clinically relevant extent.
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption and Distribution Guanfacine is readily absorbed and approximately 70% bound to plasma proteins independent of drug concentration. After oral administration of guanfacine extended-release tablets the time to peak plasma concentration is approximately 5 hours in children and adolescents with ADHD. Immediate-release and extended-release guanfacine have different pharmacokinetic characteristics; dose substitution on a milligram per milligram basis will result in differences in exposure.
A comparison across studies suggests that the Cmax is 60% lower and AUC0-∞ 43% lower, respectively, for the extended-release compared to immediate-release guanfacine. Therefore, the relative bioavailability of the extended-release to immediate-release guanfacine is 58%. The mean pharmacokinetic parameters in adults following the administration of guanfacine extended-release tablets 1 mg once daily and immediate-release guanfacine 1mg once daily are summarized in Table 15.
Table 15: Comparison of Pharmacokinetics: Guanfacine Extended-Release vs. Immediate-Release Guanfacine in Adults Parameter Guanfacine Extended-Release 1 mg once daily (n=52) Immediate-Release guanfacine 1 mg once daily (n=12) Cmax (ng/mL) 1.0 ± 0.3 2.5 ±
0.6AUC0-∞ (ng·h/mL) 32 ± 9 56 ± 15 tmax (h) 6.0 (4.0 to 8.0) 3.0 (1.5 to 4.0) t½ (h) 18 ± 4 16 ± 3 Note: Values are mean +/- SD, except for tmax which is median (range) Figure 1: Comparison of Pharmacokinetics: Guanfacine Extended-Release vs. Immediate-Release Guanfacine in Adults [Figure-1] Exposure to guanfacine was higher in children (ages 6 to 12) compared to adolescents (ages 13 to 17) and adults. After oral administration of multiple doses of guanfacine extended-release tablets 4 mg, the Cmax was 10 ng/mL compared to 7 ng/mL and the AUC was 162 ng·h/mL compared to 116 ng·h/mL in children (ages 6 to 12) and adolescents (ages 13 to 17), respectively.
These differences are probably attributable to the lower body weight of children compared to adolescents and adults. The pharmacokinetics were affected by intake of food when a single dose of guanfacine extended-release tablets 4 mg was administered with a high-fat breakfast. The mean exposure increased (Cmax ~75% and AUC ~40%) compared to dosing in a fasted state.
Dose Proportionality Following administration of guanfacine extended-release tablets in single doses of 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, and 4 mg to adults, Cmax and AUC0-∞ of guanfacine were proportional to dose. Metabolism and Elimination In vitro studies with human liver microsomes and recombinant CYP’s demonstrated that guanfacine was primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. In pooled human hepatic microsomes, guanfacine did not inhibit the activities of the major cytochrome P450 isoenzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6 or CYP3A4/5); guanfacine is also not an inducer of CYP3A, CYP1A2 and CYP2B6.
Guanfacine is a substrate of CYP3A4/5…
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP 1 mg are white to off-white, round, biconvex tablets, engraved “APO” on one side, “GU1” on the other side. They are supplied as follows: Bottles of 30s (NDC 72189-469-30) Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP 2 mg are white to off-white, oval shaped, biconvex tablets, engraved “APO” on one side, “GUA 2” on the other side. They are supplied as follows: Bottles of 100s (NDC 60505-3928-1) Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP 3 mg are green, round, biconvex tablets, engraved “APO” on one side, “GU3” on the other side.
They are supplied as follows: Bottles of 100s (NDC 60505-3929-1) Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP 4 mg are green, oval shaped, biconvex tablets, engraved “APO” on one side, “GUA 4” on the other side. They are supplied as follows: Bottles of 100s (NDC 60505-3930-1)
📦 Storage and Handling ▾
Storage - Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from moisture.
📋 Description ▾
Guanfacine extended-release tablets, USP are a once-daily, extended-release formulation of guanfacine hydrochloride in a matrix tablet formulation for oral administration only. The chemical designation is N-amidino-2-(2,6-dichlorophenyl) acetamide monohydrochloride. The molecular formula is C9H9Cl2N3O·HCl corresponding to a molecular weight of 282.55 g/mol.
The chemical structure is: [spd503-chemical-stucture] Guanfacine hydrochloride, USP is a white to off-white powder, sparingly soluble in water (approximately 1 mg/mL) and alcohol and slightly soluble in acetone. The only organic solvent in which it has relatively high solubility is methanol (>30 mg/mL). Each tablet contains guanfacine hydrochloride, USP equivalent to 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, or 4 mg of guanfacine base.
The tablets also contain anhydrous lactose, colloidal silicon dioxide, fumaric acid, hypromellose and magnesium stearate. In addition, the 3-mg and 4-mg tablets also contain FD&C Blue #2 and ferric oxide yellow. Dissolution test pending.
💬 Patient Medication Information ▾
Guanfacine Extended-Release Tablets, USP (gwahn-fa-seen) Patient Information available at www1.apotex.com/products/us Read the Patient Information that comes with guanfacine extended-release tablets before you start taking it and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This leaflet does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or your treatment.
What are guanfacine extended-release tablets? Guanfacine extended-release tablets are a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Guanfacine extended-release tablets may be used alone or with ADHD stimulant medicines.
Guanfacine extended-release tablets are not a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It is not known if guanfacine extended-release tablets are safe and effective in children younger than 6 years of age. Who should not take guanfacine extended-release tablets?
Do not take guanfacine extended-release tablets if you are allergic to guanfacine or any of the ingredients in guanfacine extended-release tablets. See the end of this leaflet for a complete list of ingredients in guanfacine extended-release tablets. What should I tell my doctor before taking guanfacine extended-release tablets?
Before you take guanfacine extended-release tablets, tell your doctor if you: have heart problems or a low heart rate have fainted have low or high blood pressure have liver or kidney problems have any other medical conditions are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if guanfacine extended-release tablets will harm your unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
There is a pregnancy registry for females who are exposed to ADHD medications, including guanfacine extended-release tablets, during pregnancy. The purpose of the registry is to collect information about the health of females exposed to guanfacine extended-release tablets and their baby. If you or your child becomes pregnant during treatment with guanfacine extended-release tablets, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry of ADHD medications at 1-866-961-2388. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
It is not known if guanfacine extended-release tablets passes into your breast milk. Talk to your doctor about the best way to feed your baby while taking guanfacine extended-release tablets. Tell your doctor about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Guanfacine extended-release tablets may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how guanfacine extended-release tablets work. Especially tell your doctor if you take: ketoconazole medicines that can affect enzyme metabolism high blood pressure medicine sedatives benzodiazepines barbiturates antipsychotics Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a list of these medicines, if you are not sure. Know the medicines you take.
Keep a list of them and show it to your doctor and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. How should I take guanfacine extended-release tablets? Take guanfacine extended-release tablets exactly as your doctor tells you.
Your doctor may change your dose. Do not change your dose of guanfacine extended-release tablets without talking to your doctor. Do not stop taking guanfacine extended-release tablets without talking to your doctor.
Try not to miss your dose of guanfacine extended-release tablets. If you miss a dose of guanfacine extended-release tablets, take the next dose at your regular time. If you miss 2 or more doses, talk to your doctor, as you may need to restart guanfacine extended-release tablets with a lower dose.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Guanfacine extended-release tablets should be taken 1 time a day in the morning or in the evening, either alone or in combination with an ADHD stimulant medicine that your doctor may p…