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Compare 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)
    Guanfacine er (Intuniv)
  • Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
    Guanfacine er (Intuniv)

  • Summary of Focalin vs. Intuniv

    Summary for Stimulant
    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.

    Summary for Alpha 2A-adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) is used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in kids ages 6 to 17 years old. Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) isn't a controlled substance and can be an alternative to stimulant-based ADHD medications. Keep in mind that only the extended-release (ER) version of guanfacine, under the brand name Intuniv ER, is approved to treat ADHD. It's taken by mouth, typically once daily. Some common side effects of guanfacine ER (Intuniv) include sleepiness and tiredness. Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) is available as a lower-cost generic medication.

  • Indications of Focalin vs. Intuniv

    Indications for
    •Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    Indications for
    •Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

  • Pros and Cons of Focalin vs. Intuniv

    Pros and Const for Stimulant
    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
    Pros and Const for Alpha 2A-adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Not a stimulant, so doesn't have same side effects typically linked to stimulants
    •Can be taken alone or with other medications for ADHD
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Only taken once daily
    •Not a controlled substance since there's no concern for abuse and dependence
    Cons
    •Might take several weeks to start working
    •Not a long-term medication for ADHD
    •Commonly causes sleepiness and tiredness
    •Not approved for adults with ADHD
    •Might not work as well for older children (13 to 17 years old)

  • Common Side Effects of Focalin vs. Intuniv

    Common Side Effects for

    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%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (38%)
    •Tiredness (14%)
    •Low blood pressure (7%)
    •Nausea (6%)
    •Lack of energy (6%)
    •Dizziness (6%)

  • Warnings of Focalin vs. Intuniv

    Common Side Effects for
    •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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Low blood pressure or heart rate
    •Extreme sleepiness
    •Rebound high blood pressure
    •Heart problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Focalin vs. Intuniv

    Learn more about Focalin
    Learn more about Guanfacine er

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