Proper Use
Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®
Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.
This medicine should come with patient information insert. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.
If you are using this medicine for high blood pressure:
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Take your daily dose of guanfacine at bedtime. If you are taking more than one dose per day, take your last dose at bedtime. Taking it this way will help lessen daytime drowsiness.
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In addition to the use of the medicine your doctor has prescribed, treatment for your high blood pressure may include weight control and care in the types of foods you eat, especially foods high in sodium (salt). Your doctor will tell you which of these are most important for you. You should check with your doctor before changing your diet.
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Many patients who have high blood pressure will not notice any signs of the problem. In fact, many may feel normal. It is very important that you take your medicine exactly as directed and that you keep your appointments with your doctor even if you feel well.
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Remember that this medicine will not cure your high blood pressure but it does help control it. Therefore, you must continue to use it as directed if you expect to lower your blood pressure and keep it down. You may have to take high blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life. If high blood pressure is not treated, it can cause serious problems such as heart failure, blood vessel disease, stroke, or kidney disease.
Swallow the extended-release tablet whole with water, milk, or other liquids. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
You should not take the extended-release tablets with high fat meals.
Dosing
The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.
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For oral dosage form (extended-release tablets):
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For attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD):
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Adults and children 6 years of age and older—At first, 1 milligram (mg) once a day, either in the morning or evening, at the same time each day. Your doctor may slowly adjust your dose as needed and tolerated. However, the dose is usually not more than 4 mg per day.
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Children younger than 6 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
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For oral dosage form (tablets):
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For high blood pressure:
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Adults—At first, 1 milligram (mg) once a day, at bedtime. Your doctor may slowly increase your dose up to 3 mg per day, as needed.
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Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
If you missed taking guanfacine extended-release tablets for 2 or more days in a row, check with your doctor. If your body suddenly goes without this medicine, some unwanted effects may occur. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.
Storage
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.
Portions of this document last updated: May 01, 2024
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