Guanfacine (By Mouth)
Guanfacine (GWAHN-fa-seen)
Treats high blood pressure.
Brand Name(s):Tenex
There may be other brand names for this medicine. When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to guanfacine. How to Use This Medicine:
Tablet
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Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often.
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Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered. Even if you feel fine your blood pressure can still be high.
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May be taken with or without food.
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If you are taking guanfacine once a day, take the dose at bedtime to avoid being drowsy during the day (unless your doctor tells you differently).
If a dose is missed:
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Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
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Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose and take your medicine at your usual time.
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If you miss more than two doses in row, talk with your doctor.
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You should not use two doses at the same time.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
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Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
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Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
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Avoid drinking alcohol while using this medicine.
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Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using any medicine that makes you sleepy, such as sleeping pills, tranquilizers, cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain-killers, or muscle relaxers.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
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Check with your doctor before using guanfacine if you have heart or liver disease, depression, or if you have had a heart attack or stroke.
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Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor. You may need to use smaller and smaller doses before completely stopping the medicine.
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Tell your doctor or dentist that you are using guanfacine before you have any kind of surgery.
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Guanfacine can make you dizzy or drowsy. Be careful if you drive a car or operate machinery.
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To avoid dizziness from this medicine, stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
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Irregular heartbeat
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Chest pain
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Trouble breathing
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Severe weakness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
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Headache or eye irritation
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Trouble sleeping
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Constipation
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Drowsiness or dizziness
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Dry mouth and nose
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Trouble having sex
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Depressed mood
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
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