Serious Side Effects of Guanfacine
Although guanfacine can effectively treat ADHD, there are some serious risks to consider. Understanding these potential risks before taking guanfacine is vital to making an informed treatment decision.
“Sedation, dry mouth, and dizziness can be side effects of guanfacine. If these persist, contact your doctor.”
– Talkspace Psychiatrist Dr. Dion Metzger
Slow heart rate
One of the serious adverse effects of guanfacine is a slowing of the heart rate. A slow heart rate can cause dizziness, fatigue, and fainting. If any of these occur while taking Guanfacine, contact your doctor immediately.
Heart block (ER form)
Heart block occurs when electrical signals between the upper and lower chambers of the heart are blocked or delayed. Signs of heart block may include chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat. If you have any symptoms of heart block, seek medical help immediately.
Very low blood pressure (ER form)
Hypotension, or very low blood pressure, is a serious side effect of guanfacine. If you feel weak or unsteady when getting up quickly from a sitting or reclining position, it may indicate low blood pressure as a result of taking guanfacine.
Hallucinations (ER form)
If any hallucinations occur while taking guanfacine, it is important to speak with your doctor to adjust the dosage accordingly to prevent further problems from arising over time.
wheezing
Wheezing is a rare but serious side effect of guanfacine and should be taken seriously. If you experience difficulty breathing or a feeling of tightness around the throat area after taking Guanfacine, seek medical attention immediately.
Severe allergic reactions
If any type of serious allergic reaction occurs while taking Guanfacine, seek emergency assistance immediately to avoid life-threatening consequences. Signs and symptoms may include hives/rash on the surface(s) of the skin, swelling around the eyes/mouth, itchy sensations in all parts of the body, difficulty breathing, extreme dizziness and nausea, among others. other things.
Fainting or fainting
Experiencing sudden weakness or dizziness followed by an actual loss of consciousness is a rare but potential event related to taking guanfacine for the treatment of ADHD. If you pass out or pass out while taking guanfacine, seek medical help immediately.
Seizures (ER form)
Seizures can be a serious side effect of taking guanfacine for the treatment of ADHD. Warning signs vary from person to person, but the most common include uncontrollable jerking movements and loss of consciousness.
High blood pressure if it stops suddenly
When guanfacine is stopped abruptly, high blood pressure is a common side effect.
Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
Stopping guanfacine without consulting a medical professional may cause mild to severe withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Talk to a doctor before stopping taking medications to avoid guanfacine withdrawal.
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