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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.

Intuniv

(guanfacine ER)

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Guanfacine

 

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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 Tenex

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 for Tenex

Pros and Cons for Tenex

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 for Tenex

  • 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 for Tenex

  • Extreme sleepiness and dizziness
  • Nervousness and anxiety (from stopping guanfacine too suddenly)

Prices with our coupons for Intuniv vs. Tenex

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Guanfacine ER30 tablets / 1mg
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Price Card Drug Icon
Guanfacine30 tablets / 1mg
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