Guanfacine
Generic Name: guanfacine
Brand Names:
Guanfacine Hydrochloride
DESCRIPTION Guanfacine hydrochloride, USP is a centrally acting antihypertensive with α 2 -adrenoceptor agonist properties in tablet form for oral administration. The chemical name of guanfacine hydrochloride, USP is N-amidino-2-(2,6-dichlorophenyl) acetamide hydrochloride and its molecular weight is 282.56. Its structural formula is: Guanfacine hydrochloride, USP is a white to off-white powder; sparingly soluble in water and alcohol and slightly soluble in acetone.
Overview
DESCRIPTION Guanfacine hydrochloride, USP is a centrally acting antihypertensive with α 2 -adrenoceptor agonist properties in tablet form for oral administration. The chemical name of guanfacine hydrochloride, USP is N-amidino-2-(2,6-dichlorophenyl) acetamide hydrochloride and its molecular weight is 282.56. Its structural formula is: Guanfacine hydrochloride, USP is a white to off-white powder; sparingly soluble in water and alcohol and slightly soluble in acetone.
Uses
INDICATIONS & USAGE Guanfacine tablets are indicated in the management of hypertension. Guanfacine may be given alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents, especially thiazide-type diuretics.
Dosage
DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION The recommended initial dose of guanfacine tablets, USP when given alone or in combination with another antihypertensive drug is 1 mg daily given at bedtime to minimize somnolence. If after 3 to 4 weeks of therapy 1 mg does not give a satisfactory result, a dose of 2 mg may be given, although most of the effect of guanfacine is seen at 1 mg (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ). Higher daily doses have been used, but adverse reactions increase significantly with doses above 3 mg/day. The frequency of rebound hypertension is low, but it can occur. When rebound occurs, it does so after 2 to 4 days, which is delayed compared with clonidine hydrochloride. This is consistent with the longer half-life of guanfacine.
Side Effects
ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions noted with guanfacine hydrochloride are similar to those of other drugs of the central α 2 -adrenoreceptor agonist class: dry mouth, sedation (somnolence), weakness (asthenia), dizziness, constipation, and impotence. While the reactions are common, most are mild and tend to disappear on continued dosing. Skin rash with exfoliation has been reported in a few cases; although clear cause and effect relationships to guanfacine could not be established, should a rash occur, guanfacine should be discontinued and the patient monitored appropriately.
Warnings
CONTRAINDICATIONS Guanfacine tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to guanfacine hydrochloride
Storage
HOW SUPPLIED Guanfacine tablets, USP are available in 2 tablet strengths of guanfacine (as the hydrochloride salt) as follows: 1 mg: white, oval, flat-faced, beveled-edge tablet with “AN” on one side and “711” on the other side. 2 mg: white, oval, flat-faced, beveled-edge tablet with “AN” on one side and “713” on the other side. NDC 50268-374-15 (10 tablets per card, 5 cards per carton).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Guanfacine used for?▼
INDICATIONS & USAGE Guanfacine tablets are indicated in the management of hypertension. Guanfacine may be given alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents, especially thiazide-type diuretics.
What are the side effects of Guanfacine?▼
ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions noted with guanfacine hydrochloride are similar to those of other drugs of the central α 2 -adrenoreceptor agonist class: dry mouth, sedation (somnolence), weakness (asthenia), dizziness, constipation, and impotence. While the reactions are common, most are mild and tend to disappear on continued dosing. Skin rash with exfoliation has been reported in a few cases; although clear cause and effect relationships to guanfacine could not be established, should a rash occur, guanfacine should be discontinued and the patient monitored appropriately.
What are the important warnings for Guanfacine?▼
CONTRAINDICATIONS Guanfacine tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to guanfacine hydrochloride
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Medical Disclaimer
This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.