Intuniv: New Nonstimulant Medication for ADHD?

I've been hearing about a new nonstimulant medication called Intuniv. Could it be a good option for my son?

by Larry Silver, M.D.

Intuniv is a new, extended-release formulation of the high-blood pressure medication guanfacine (sold for hypertension under the brand name Tenex) that can be used alone or along with stimulant medications in children ages 6 to 17. It is not a new medication.

We have known for many years that guanfacine may help some children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), especially those with high levels of impulsivity that cause disruptive behaviors. Many practitioners have prescribed this drug “off-label” for a while. You should ask your doctor if he thinks it would be a good option for your son.