Guanfacine

Traditionally used to support focus, calm, and emotional balance, Guanfacine is a non-stimulant compound that interacts with the brain’s adrenergic system. Often sought out for its grounding and clarifying effects, it may assist with attention, impulse control, and restful sleep.

i) ✅ Primary Pharmacological Actions of Guanfacine:

✅ Potential Benefits

• Enhances Focus & Attention
  Supports executive function and mental clarity by strengthening prefrontal cortex activity.

• Reduces Hyperactivity & Impulsivity
  Calms overactive neural circuits, making it useful for attention-related challenges.

• Promotes Emotional Regulation
  Helps reduce reactivity and supports a more grounded, balanced mood.

• Supports Restful Sleep
  Encourages deeper sleep by quieting the nervous system and lowering arousal.

• Non-Stimulant & Gentle
  Provides a calming effect without overstimulation—ideal for sensitive systems.

ii) Guanfacine Primary Pharmacological Properties

iii) 💊 Guanfacine Dosing Overview

Standard Range:

• Adults: 0.5 mg to 3 mg per day

• Children/Adolescents (for ADHD): 0.5 mg to 1–4 mg per day, depending on weight and sensitivity

• Often taken once daily at bedtime due to its calming/sedating effects

Timing & Frequency:

• Typically taken 1–2 times daily

  • Once at bedtime (common for sleep or calming support)

  • Or split: morning + evening for more even effects

• Has a shorter half-life (~17 hours), so some people prefer a split dose to reduce daytime fatigue or manage symptoms more evenly

iv) ⚠️ Important Considerations & Warnings

Blood Pressure Monitoring

• Guanfacine lowers blood pressure and heart rate — useful for calming, but may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing

• Caution in people prone to hypotension (low blood pressure)

Sedation & Fatigue

• Drowsiness is common, especially at the start

• Best taken in the evening or before sleep if sedating

• Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you