Intuniv XR® Extended-Release Tablets for ADHD

Intuniv XR® is a prescription, extended-release form of guanfacine used to help manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms. This page explains how it works, who it may suit, and how to use it safely. We offer US delivery from Canada, and you can compare options even if paying without insurance.

What Intuniv XR Is and How It Works

Guanfacine is a selective alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist. It can reduce distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity by modulating prefrontal cortical signaling. The treatment is not a stimulant. It may be used alone or alongside other ADHD therapies when a prescriber deems appropriate. YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy in Manitoba. Pharmacists review prescriptions before dispensing.

This medicine is taken by mouth once daily. Effects can include calmer behavior, improved focus, and steadier routines. Response varies by patient and regimen. Always follow the directions on your prescription label.

Who It’s For

This therapy is indicated to treat ADHD in children and adolescents. Some adults may also use it when a clinician decides it fits their history and goals. People with low blood pressure, certain heart rhythm problems, or a history of fainting should discuss risks. Those with significant liver impairment, kidney issues, or who take multiple sedatives need careful review by a healthcare professional.

If you have severe cardiovascular disease, depression, or a history of syncope, share full details with your prescriber. Tell your clinician about all medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you use.

Dosage and Usage

Intuniv XR dosing is once daily, swallowed whole. Do not crush, split, or chew the tablets. Take it at the same time each day, with water. The tablet may be taken with or without food, but keep your routine consistent to reduce variability. Your prescriber may adjust the strength gradually. Follow the prescription label exactly. Do not change your dose without medical guidance.

If you also take a stimulant, your prescriber may introduce this medicine first, then evaluate the combination. Alcohol and sedatives can intensify drowsiness. Use care with driving or tasks needing alertness until you know how you respond.

Strengths and Forms

This treatment is supplied as extended-release oral tablets in various strengths. Common packaging is child-resistant. Availability can vary by supply and manufacturer.

Some patients start with guanfacine ER 1 mg as part of a titration plan set by their clinician. The exact strength you receive depends on your prescription and response.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss a dose, take the next dose at the usual time the following day. Do not double up to catch up. Keeping a daily reminder or pill organizer can help maintain consistency. If several doses are missed, contact your prescriber for guidance rather than restarting on your own. Abrupt discontinuation may cause a rise in blood pressure or heart rate in some patients; follow medical advice if therapy is being tapered.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store tablets at room temperature in the original container, away from moisture and excess heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Close the cap tightly after each use. Avoid storing in bathrooms or cars where heat and humidity fluctuate.

For travel, carry your prescription in your cabin bag. Use a travel pill case that seals well, but keep the original labeled bottle to show security or customs if needed. Pack enough tablets for your trip plus a few extra days in case of delays. If crossing borders, carry a copy of your prescription and your prescriber’s contact details.

Benefits

This non-stimulant option may help reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity while supporting attention across the day. Once-daily dosing fits school and work routines. It can be used alone or layered with other ADHD treatments when supervised by a clinician. Sedation can occur, but evening dosing may help some patients align with sleep needs. Results depend on the individual, dose, and adherence.

Side Effects and Safety

• Sleepiness or fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Dry mouth
• Abdominal pain or nausea
• Constipation
• Low blood pressure or slow heart rate

Serious effects are uncommon but can include fainting, significant bradycardia, or marked hypotension. Seek urgent care for severe dizziness, chest pain, trouble breathing, or loss of consciousness. Avoid abrupt discontinuation unless your clinician instructs a taper. If you have diabetes, dehydration, or illness with vomiting, monitor carefully because blood pressure can fluctuate. Report persistent daytime sleepiness or mood changes.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Intuniv XR interactions include strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, which can alter exposure. Examples include certain macrolide antibiotics, azole antifungals, some anti-seizure medicines, and herbal products like St. John’s wort. Sedatives, opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol can increase drowsiness. Antihypertensives may compound blood pressure effects.

Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice unless your prescriber confirms it is safe. Tell your clinician about clonidine or other alpha-2 agonists. If you take valproic acid, monitoring may be needed. For a refresher on common interaction patterns, see our guide on Top Interactions.

What to Expect Over Time

People often ask how long does Intuniv XR last in daily use. The extended-release design supports all-day coverage when taken as directed. Some individuals notice calmer behavior and better task completion with regular use. Others may need adjustments or additional therapies. Keep regular check-ins with your prescriber to review tolerability, attention, and daily functioning. Use simple routines to help adherence, like keeping the bottle near your morning essentials.

If sleepiness occurs, discuss the timing of your dose. If irritability or headaches emerge, track patterns and share them at follow-up. Progress is usually incremental; consistency helps clinicians evaluate your response.

Compare With Alternatives

Clinicians may consider a stimulant when appropriate, such as Lisdexamfetamine, especially when inattention or hyperactivity remain prominent. Another option is atomoxetine, a non-stimulant norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, though availability varies. Your choice depends on medical history, prior responses, and goals. Explore broader condition resources in our categories for Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder.

Pricing and Access

You can buy guanfacine extended-release through YouDrugstore with transparent Canadian pricing. Review your prescription details, then add the item to your cart to see available options. We offer clear checkout steps and US fulfilment options. Ships from Canada to US with tracking. If you are looking for savings, check our Promotions page for current offers. A prescription is required and verified before dispensing.

Availability and Substitutions

Supply can vary by manufacturer and strength. If your prescribed strength is temporarily unavailable, your prescriber may suggest a different strength or a clinically suitable alternative. Do not switch products without advice from your healthcare professional. For broader mental health options, browse Mental Health to view related therapies.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This medicine may suit patients who need non-stimulant support or who experienced side effects with stimulant therapy. It may not be ideal for people with low baseline blood pressure or those prone to fainting. Discuss heart history, sleep patterns, and current medicines with your clinician.

• Multi-month fills: Ask your prescriber about longer supplies to reduce refill frequency.
• Refill reminders: Set calendar alerts to keep dosing steady.
• Stable routine: Take it at the same time each day for consistent effects.
• Travel prep: Carry your labeled bottle and a copy of your prescription.
• Follow-up visits: Regular check-ins help refine your plan and improve adherence.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Is a non-stimulant appropriate for my symptoms and medical history?
• How should I time my dose to balance daytime focus and sleep?
• Which medicines or supplements should I avoid while using this therapy?
• What signs suggest I should contact you sooner than planned?
• If I experience dizziness, what precautions should I take day to day?
• Could combining this treatment with a stimulant improve outcomes for me?
• How will we monitor blood pressure and heart rate over time?

Authoritative Sources

Learn more from official references:

• FDA Prescribing Information
• DailyMed: Guanfacine ER
• Health Canada Drug Product Database

Ready to proceed? Order at YouDrugstore with express US shipping from Canada. Standard tablets are shelf-stable; we use temperature-controlled handling when required. This information is educational and does not replace your clinician’s advice.