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guanidine

Generic

Used for Eaton-Lambert Syndrome

Guanidine is used to treat muscle weakness caused by a rare condition called Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). This medication has been discontinued and is no longer available in the United States.

Reviewed by:

Sarah Lobello Pearson, PharmD

Daisy Chau, PharmD

Last reviewed on December 19, 2022

Basics FAQs Interactions Alternatives Prices Medicare

What is Guanidine?

What is Guanidine used for?

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS)

How Guanidine works

Drug Facts

Common BrandsNo brands available

Drug ClassCholinergic agonist

Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication

Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available

AvailabilityDiscontinued

Frequently asked questions about Guanidine

What is guanidine?

Guanidine treats a condition known as Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). LEMS is an autoimmune condition, meaning that the body's own immune system attacks healthy cells. LEMS affects the muscles in the arms and legs, and causes them to be weak and tired. Guanidine works to treat LEMS by helping the body release more acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a chemical that helps with communication between the nerves and muscles.So guanidine lessens muscle weakness by raising the amount of acetylcholine in the body.

Is guanidine still available?

No, guanidine has been discontinued by the manufacturer and is no longer available in the United States. It's unclear why this medication was discontinued.

What can I use instead of guanidine?

A new medication for LEMS known as Firdapse (amifampridine) was recently approved by the FDA. It works similarly to guanidine in that it also raises the amount of acetylcholine in the body. Since LEMS is an autoimmune condition, medications that suppress the immune system (e.g. prednisone) might be used if you have serious symptoms. It might also be an option for you to receive treatment with immunoglobulins to prevent your condition from getting worse. Talk to your provider about the treatment options that are best for you.

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Interactions between Guanidine and other drugs

Guanidine may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Guanidine. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.