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Printable Version Guanfacine Tablets

Active Ingredients: Guanfacine
Other Names: Guanfacine Hydrochloride Tablets, Tenex Tablets
Drug Class: Alpha-2 Agonists
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Guanfacine Tablets?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Guanfacine Tablets? (Back to top)
GUANFACINE is used to treat high blood pressure. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • heart disease or recent heart attack
  • kidney or liver disease
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to guanfacine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • breast-feeding
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. You must gradually reduce the dose or you may get a dangerous increase in blood pressure. Ask your doctor or health care professional for advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

  • barbiturate medicines for inducing sleep or treating seizures
  • medicines for high blood pressure
  • phenytoin
  • prescription pain medicines

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • agitation, anxiety, trembling, or shakiness
  • confusion or excessive drowsiness
  • difficulty breathing
  • dizziness or faintness
  • increased sweating
  • increased urine passed
  • irregular, fast or slow heartbeat
  • muscle weakness or pain
  • nausea, vomiting
  • palpitations or chest pain
  • skin rash, itching
  • stomach pain
  • unusual skin rash or reaction

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • change in sex drive or performance
  • constipation
  • weakness

This list may not describe all possible side effects.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your heart rate and blood pressure regularly while you are taking this medicine. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your heart rate should be and when you should contact him or her.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To avoid dizzy or fainting spells, do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older person. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds or allergies without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients can increase your blood pressure.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:March 20, 2006

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Guanfacine Tablets

  Learn how Guanfacine Tablets is/are used to treat:
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Guanfacine Tablets, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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