Uses
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Hypertension
Guanfacine hydrochloride is used alone or in combination with other classes of antihypertensive agents in the management of hypertension.
Although other antihypertensive drug classes (angiotensin-converting enzyme [ACE] inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, calcium-channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics) are preferred for the initial management of hypertension in adults, centrally acting agents such as guanfacine may be considered as add-on therapy if goal blood pressure cannot be achieved with the recommended drugs.
Hypotensive efficacy of guanfacine has been shown to be similar to that of clonidine and methyldopa.
Guanfacine has been used in conjunction with diuretics (e.g., thiazides), producing a greater reduction in blood pressure than is obtained with either drug alone. Use of a diuretic or other antihypertensive agents may aid in overcoming tolerance to guanfacine and permit reduction of guanfacine dosage.
For additional information on overall principles and expert recommendations for treatment of hypertension,
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Guanfacine hydrochloride has been used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients. Guanfacine produces a moderate reduction in symptoms of ADHD; stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines) remain the drugs of choice for the management of ADHD because of their greater efficacy compared with that of other drugs (e.g., guanfacine). Guanfacine may be especially useful in pediatric patients with comorbid tic disorders, which can be triggered or worsened by stimulant therapy. For a more detailed discussion on the management of ADHD,