Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Intuniv XR (Guanfacine).
Abnormal heart rhythms: Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) can cause abnormal heart rhythms. Certain medications (e.g., Sotalol, quinidine, Chlorpromazine, Pimozide, moxifloxacin, Mefloquine, pentamidine, Tacrolimus) can increase the risk of a type of abnormal heart rhythm called QT prolongation, and should not be used in combination with Intuniv XR (Guanfacine). If you have been told that your child is at an increased risk of developing an abnormal heart rhythm, discuss with your doctor how Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Intuniv XR (Guanfacine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Blood pressure and heart rate: Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) may cause decreases in blood pressure or heart rate. If you have low blood pressure or are just starting to take Intuniv XR (Guanfacine), you should move slowly when you are rising from a sitting or lying down position to reduce the risk of dizziness.
Drowsiness and reduced alertness: Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) may affect the mental or physical abilities needed to perform tasks that require special attention. Have your child avoid riding a bike, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous tasks until you have determined how Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) affects your child.
Kidney function: Kidney Disease or reduced kidney function may cause Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If your child has reduced kidney function or kidney disease, discuss with your doctor how Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Intuniv XR (Guanfacine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If your child has liver problems, discuss with their doctor how Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) may affect their medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Intuniv XR (Guanfacine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Psychiatric and behavioural concerns: Medications used to treat ADHD, including Intuniv XR (Guanfacine), may increase symptoms of mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, psychosis, or Depression. Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) may cause people to feel agitated (restless, anxious, aggressive, emotional) and not like themselves. If you experience these side effects or notice them in a family member who is taking Intuniv XR (Guanfacine), contact your doctor immediately. Your child should be closely monitored by your doctor for emotional and behaviour changes while taking Intuniv XR (Guanfacine).
Self-harm and suicide risk: People with ADHD may have a slightly increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Like other medications for ADHD, Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) may contribute to this risk. It is important to watch for suicidal thoughts and behaviors and encourage your child to report any worrisome thoughts or feelings to you. Report any concerns to your child's doctor immediately.
Stopping the medication: If Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) needs to be stopped, it should be done gradually, under the supervision of your doctor. Suddenly stopping Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate, which, although rare, can cause serious complications, including swelling in the brain. Your doctor can advise you on how to reduce the medication slowly to reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure. If your child complains of headaches or seems confused, nervous, agitated, or has tremors, contact your child's doctor immediately.
Pregnancy: Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Intuniv XR (Guanfacine), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Intuniv XR (Guanfacine), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) have not been established for children less than 6 years old. The effectiveness of using Intuniv XR (Guanfacine) to treat ADHD has not been established for adolescents more than 17 years old.
