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Focalin vs. Intuniv

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Focalin XR) and Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) are both used to treat ADHD, but they work in different ways and have different side effects. Dexmethylphenidate is a stimulant that helps balance chemicals in your brain to improve focus and attention. It can cause side effects like stomach upset, nervousness, and trouble sleeping. It is a controlled substance, meaning it has a risk of misuse and dependence. On the other hand, Guanfacine ER is a non-stimulant that works by lowering norepinephrine levels in certain parts of the brain. It can cause sleepiness and tiredness, and it is not a controlled substance, so there's no concern for abuse or dependence. Guanfacine ER is only approved for children and adolescents, while Dexmethylphenidate can be used by both adults and children. Additionally, Dexmethylphenidate is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, whereas Guanfacine ER is only available in an extended-release form.

Focalin

(dexmethylphenidate)

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Intuniv

(guanfacine ER)

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Summary for Focalin

Prescription only

Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Focalin XR) is a stimulant medication that's used for treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It's thought to work by balancing certain chemicals in your brain to help you focus. This medication is available as an immediate-release tablet that you take twice per day and an extended-release capsule you take once per day. Side effects can include stomach upset and nervousness. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms if it's suddenly stopped after long-term use. Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is available as both a brand-name and lower-cost generic medication.

Indications for Focalin

  • Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Pros and Cons for Focalin

Pros

  • Works well to treat ADHD in children and adults
  • Available as immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules for a more flexible dosing schedule
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • A controlled substance because of the risk for misuse and dependency
  • Might cause trouble sleeping if you take too late in the day
  • Not the best option if you have heart problems
  • Not available as a liquid

Common Side Effects for Focalin

Immediate-release tablet Age 6 to 17 years:

  • Stomach pain (15%)
  • Nausea (9%)
  • Low appetite (6%)

Extended-release capsule Age 6 to 17 years:

  • Difficulty sleeping (up to 17%)
  • Vomiting (up to 9%)
  • Low appetite (up to 7%)

Age 17 to 60 years:

  • Headache (up to 39%)
  • Dry mouth (up to 20%)
  • Anxiety (up to 11%)
  • Indigestion (up to 9%)
  • Throat pain (up to 7%)

Warnings for Focalin

  • Misuse and dependence
  • Serious heart problems
  • Changes in behavior or thoughts
  • Prolonged and painful erection
  • Problems with blood circulation (Raynaud's phenomenon)
  • Slowed growth in children
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Drug interactions

Summary for Intuniv

Prescription only

Intuniv (guanfacine extended release) is used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in kids ages 6 to 17 years old. It's not a controlled substance and can be used instead of stimulant medications for ADHD. Intuniv (guanfacine ER) belongs to the drug class called alpha-2A agonists. It comes as a tablet that you take by mouth once a day, either in the morning or at bedtime. Common side effects include sleepiness and tiredness. Taking it in the evening might help with these side effects. Intuniv (guanfacine ER) comes as brand-name and generic versions.

Indications for Intuniv

Pros and Cons for Intuniv

Pros

Cons

  • Can make you feel sleepy or tired
  • Might take a few weeks to start working
  • Might not work as well for teens between 13 and 17 years old
  • Not approved for adults with ADHD

Common Side Effects for Intuniv

  • Sleepiness (38%)
  • Headache (23%)
  • Tiredness (14%)
  • Stomach pain (11%)
  • Low blood pressure (7%)
  • Low energy (6%)
  • Dizziness (6%)
  • Nausea (6%)
  • Low appetite (6%)
  • Feeling irritable (6%)

Warnings for Intuniv

  • Low blood pressure and low heart rate
  • Sleepiness
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Rebound high blood pressure and other symptoms after stopping

Prices with our coupons for Focalin vs. Intuniv

Price Card Drug Icon
Dexmethylphenidate60 tablets / 10mg
$25.01$156.70
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Price Card Drug Icon
Guanfacine ER30 tablets / 1mg
$15.05$37.45
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