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Intuniv vs. Concerta

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

Key takeaways

Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) and Methylphenidate ER (Concerta) are both used to treat ADHD, but they belong to different medication classes and work differently. Guanfacine ER is an alpha-2A agonist and is not a stimulant, making it a good option for those who can't take stimulants. It's typically taken once daily at night and can take several weeks to start working. Common side effects include sleepiness and tiredness. On the other hand, Methylphenidate ER is a stimulant and is considered a first-choice medication for ADHD. It starts working within 2 hours and lasts throughout the day, but it can cause difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite. Methylphenidate ER has a risk of misuse and dependency, making it a controlled substance, whereas Guanfacine ER is not. Additionally, Methylphenidate ER is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids, while Guanfacine ER is only available as a tablet.

Intuniv

(guanfacine ER)

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methylphenidate ER

 

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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

Summary for Concerta

Prescription only

Methylphenidate extended-release (ER) is a first-choice option for people with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This once-daily medication can start to work within 2 hours and can last throughout the day. Methylphenidate ER can cause difficulty sleeping and a loss of appetite. It also has a potential risk of misuse and dependency and is thus a controlled substance.

Indications for Concerta

  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Pros and Cons for Concerta

Pros

  • First-choice medication for ADHD
  • Taken only once per day
  • Available in many different forms (e.g., pills, chewable tablet, liquid)
  • Some brands available in lower-cost generic form
  • Can be prescribed for children as young as 6 years old

Cons

  • Has a risk of misuse and dependency
  • A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
  • Dose needs to be raised and lowered slowly to avoid bothersome side effects like distress and trouble sleeping
  • Not the best choice for pregnant or breastfeeding females or people with heart conditions
  • Can interact with certain blood pressure medications and depression medications

Common Side Effects for Concerta

Side effects might differ depending on the formulation and brand. In general:

Warnings for Concerta

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

Prices with our coupons for Intuniv vs. Concerta

Price Card Drug Icon
Guanfacine ER30 tablets / 1mg
$15.05$37.65
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Price Card Drug Icon
Methylphenidate ER30 tablets / 36mg
$35.74$359.60
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