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Compare Intuniv vs. Tenex

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

Key takeaways

Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) and guanfacine (Tenex) are both medications that affect alpha-2 receptors in the brain, but they are used for different conditions. Guanfacine ER (Intuniv) is an extended-release medication approved to treat ADHD in children ages 6 to 17, while guanfacine (Tenex) is an immediate-release medication used to treat high blood pressure in people 12 years and older. Guanfacine ER is taken once daily and is not a stimulant, making it a good option for those who can't take stimulant-based ADHD medications. On the other hand, guanfacine is typically taken at night to help manage its common side effects like sleepiness and dizziness. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics, but they should not be used interchangeably. Guanfacine ER is not approved for adults with ADHD, and guanfacine is not a first-choice option for high blood pressure.

  • Guanfacine er (Intuniv)
    Guanfacine
  • Guanfacine er (Intuniv)
    Guanfacine

  • Summary of Intuniv vs. Tenex

    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.

    Summary for Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Guanfacine is used to treat high blood pressure, but it's not a first-choice option. It's taken by mouth, typically once a day at nighttime. Common side effects of guanfacine include sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Some medications, such as sleep medications or certain pain medications, can interact with guanfacine by worsening those side effects. The brand name Tenex is no longer available.

  • Indications of Intuniv vs. Tenex

    Indications for
    •Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure in people ages 12 years and older

  • Pros and Cons of Intuniv vs. Tenex

    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)
    Pros and Const for Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Available in a lower-cost generic version
    •Taken once a day
    •Taken by mouth
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice option for treating high blood pressure
    •Stopping suddenly can lead to anxiety and nervousness
    •Can cause sleepiness and dizziness

  • Common Side Effects of Intuniv vs. Tenex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (38%)
    •Tiredness (14%)
    •Low blood pressure (7%)
    •Nausea (6%)
    •Lack of energy (6%)
    •Dizziness (6%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dry mouth (up to 54%)
    •Sleepiness (up to 39%)
    •Dizziness (up to 15%)
    •Constipation (up to 15%)
    •Headache (up to 13%)
    •Weakness (up to 10%)
    •Tiredness (up to 10%)

  • Warnings of Intuniv vs. Tenex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Low blood pressure or heart rate
    •Extreme sleepiness
    •Rebound high blood pressure
    •Heart problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Extreme sleepiness and dizziness
    •Nervousness and anxiety (from stopping guanfacine too suddenly)

  • Prices with our coupons for Intuniv vs. Tenex

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