Brand name: Intuniv, Tenex
Generic name: Guanfacine
Drug class: Alpha2A-adrenergic receptor agonist, non-stimulant
Dosage forms: Extended-release oral tablets, immediate-release oral tablets
FDA-approved uses: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, hypertension
Highlights
- Guanfacine is a prescription non-stimulant medication commonly used to treat ADHD.
- You can get a guanfacine prescription online at MEDvidi, if deemed clinically appropriate, after a medical evaluation with one of our licensed providers.
- To make sure the medication is working well and you’re not experiencing side effects, ongoing follow-up visits with your provider are necessary.
Guanfacine (Intuniv) is commonly prescribed for managing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a non-stimulant that can be prescribed online through telehealth services like MEDvidi after seeing a licensed provider. This article explains what guanfacine is, who it may be right for, how to get guanfacine online, and what to expect from treatment.
Have an ADHD assessment online and receive a treatment plan, including a guanfacine prescription, if appropriate.
What Is Guanfacine?
Guanfacine is a prescription medication commonly used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. The extended-release form (Intuniv) is FDA-approved for ADHD, while the immediate-release form (Tenex) is approved for high blood pressure. While guanfacine ER (Intuniv) isn’t FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults, it is commonly prescribed off-label for the treatment of this condition.
Guanfacine belongs to a group of medications called
Unlike stimulant medications, guanfacine is not a controlled substance and doesn’t carry a risk of abuse. But because guanfacine is a prescription-only medication, it requires an evaluation and approval from a licensed healthcare provider who can assess whether it’s appropriate for you.
Who Guanfacine May (and May Not) Be Right For
Guanfacine may be appropriate if you:
- Have been diagnosed with ADHD and need symptom management
- Experience side effects from stimulant medications or prefer a non-stimulant option
- Have a history of substance misuse
- Also have
anxiety[2] ortic disorders[3]
Guanfacine may not be appropriate if you:
- Have a history of severe low blood pressure
- Have a history of fainting
- Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- Have a heart condition
- Are taking certain medications that interact with guanfacine
How to Get a Guanfacine Prescription Online: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Sign Up and Book an Appointment
Start with creating an account with MEDvidi and complete the required intake forms about your symptoms, medical conditions, and medication history. Book an appointment at a time that is convenient for you, including same-day and next-day video visits.
Step 2: Telehealth Evaluation
You’ll get connected with a licensed healthcare provider who is authorized to practice in your state. During your telehealth visit, they will review your symptoms and ask you about how ADHD affects your daily life and whether you have any co-existing conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders. Every detail can make a difference in deciding which treatments are best for you.
If deemed suitable, your provider will write an online guanfacine prescription. However, note that prescription is not guaranteed, and your provider may recommend another medication as well as non-medication approaches, which may include therapy and lifestyle changes.
Step 3: e-Prescription (if appropriate)
If your provider determines that guanfacine is appropriate for your treatment, they will send an electronic prescription directly to your preferred pharmacy.
Your provider will give you detailed instructions about how to take guanfacine, including the starting dose and how it may be adjusted over time. Extended-release guanfacine (Intuniv) is typically taken once daily and should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed.
Step 4: Follow-Ups & Refills
If you get prescribed guanfacine online at MEDvidi, you’ll need to schedule ongoing follow-up appointments so your provider can evaluate how well the medication is working, check for side effects, and adjust the dose if needed. In these follow-ups, your provider will want to discuss changes in your symptoms, any side effects you’ve experienced, and how the medication has affected your daily functioning. Prescription refills can also be discussed with your provider during these appointments.
Side Effects and Warnings
Like all medications, guanfacine can cause
Common side effects:
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Irritability
Serious side effects (seek immediate medical care):
- Low blood pressure or heart rate
- Fainting
- Sleepiness
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
Guanfacine should not be used if you have a known allergy to it.
Costs, Insurance & Savings
The cost of guanfacine varies depending on whether you receive the brand-name or generic version, your insurance coverage, and which pharmacy you choose. The medication cost is separate from the consultation fee with your telehealth provider.
Average cost ranges with insurance:
- Generic guanfacine ER typically has a copay of $10 to $40
- Brand-name copays vary widely and can range from $10 to $80 or more. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization before covering the brand-name
Average cost ranges without insurance:
- Generic guanfacine ER costs $20 to $80 for a 30-day supply
- Brand-name Intuniv costs $350 to $500 for a 30-day supply
If cost is a concern, ask your provider about switching to generic guanfacine ER. For most people, the generic works just as well as brand-name Intuniv at a much lower cost. Check prices at different pharmacies in your area, as prices can vary. Several other options, including prescription discount cards and coupons from websites like GoodRx, RxSaver, and SingleCare, can help reduce medication costs. Some pharmacies offer membership-based services that provide discounts on prescription medications. Mail-order pharmacies are also an option, which are often less expensive.
Other ADHD Medication Options
While guanfacine is an effective treatment option for many people, your provider may also discuss alternative options with you, depending on your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals. Also, note that
Other ADHD medications include:
- Stimulants, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) or amphetamine derivatives (Adderall, Vyvanse).
- Other non-stimulant medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera) or clonidine (Kapvay).
Guanfacine is generally considered an
Why Choose MEDvidi for Your ADHD Care
At MEDvidi, licensed healthcare providers experienced in ADHD and mental health provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment, with same-day appointments often available. Our approach is evidence-based, so you can feel confident that your online ADHD treatment is individualized and guided by proven clinical standards. Book your appointment today to get help in 24 hours.
Initial appointment
$195
(Lower than traditional care)
- An online 30-minute visit
- Diagnosis check
- Identifying treatment goals
- Developing a treatment plan
- Prescribing medications if necessary
Follow-ups
$159
(Optimal and cost-effective)
- Regular 15-minute visits
- Symptoms monitoring
- Prescription refills
- Treatment adjustments
- Working on thinking and behavioral changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a prescription for guanfacine?
Yes, guanfacine is a prescription-only medication that requires evaluation and a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Can you buy guanfacine over the counter?
No, guanfacine is not available over the counter. A valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is required to get guanfacine.
Who can prescribe guanfacine?
Does MEDvidi accept insurance?
No, MEDvidi doesn’t accept insurance. Telehealth visits at MEDvidi are paid out of pocket, but we offer transparent, competitive pricing. Any medications prescribed may still be covered by your pharmacy insurance plan.
Can I receive a guanfacine prescription while on Suboxone treatment?
Because of safety concerns, patients must provide a letter from their clinician indicating that it is appropriate for them to take guanfacine while taking Suboxone.
