Compare Intuniv vs. Adderall

Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) and Adderall (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts) are both used to treat ADHD, but they have some key differences. Guanfacine ER is a non-stimulant medication that works by lowering norepinephrine levels in the brain, while Adderall is a stimulant that raises levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. Guanfacine ER is only approved for children ages 6 to 17 and is not a controlled substance, making it less likely to be misused. In contrast, Adderall is approved for both children and adults and is a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for misuse and dependency. Guanfacine ER is typically taken once daily and can cause sleepiness and tiredness, whereas Adderall is taken multiple times a day and can cause trouble sleeping and loss of appetite. Both medications are available in lower-cost generic forms. However, Adderall has additional uses for treating narcolepsy, while Guanfacine ER is specifically for ADHD.