Key takeaways
Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Adderall (dextroamphetamine / amphetamine salts) are both medications that can be used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but they belong to different medication classes. Guanfacine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist; its immediate-release form is used to treat high blood pressure, and its extended-release form (Intuniv) is approved for ADHD. Adderall, on the other hand, is a stimulant used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It comes as an immediate-release and extended-release (Adderall XR) medication. Guanfacine is typically taken once a day, while Adderall is taken once or multiple times a day, depending on the form and condition being treated. Both medications are available in both brand-name and generic forms. Common side effects of guanfacine include sleepiness and dizziness, while Adderall can cause trouble sleeping and loss of appetite. Adderall is also a controlled substance with a high risk of misuse and dependence. Guanfacine can interact with medications that cause drowsiness, whereas Adderall can interact with blood pressure medications and those affecting serotonin levels.
