The Basics
What is Guanfacine?
Treatment for ADHD and for high blood pressure.
Brand names for Guanfacine
Intuniv
How Guanfacine is classified
Antihypertensive Agents, Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists
Guanfacine During Pregnancy
Guanfacine pregnancy category
Category BNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Guanfacine while pregnant
N/A
Taking Guanfacine While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Guanfacine?
Because no information is available on the use of guanfacine during breastfeeding and its possible negative effects on lactation, other agents may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Because no information is available on the use of guanfacine during breastfeeding and its possible negative effects on lactation, other agents may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
Possible effects of Guanfacine on milk supply
Published information on the effects of guanfacine on serum prolactin or on lactation in nursing mothers was not found as of the revision date. Guanfacine decreases basal serum prolactin in men and nonnursing women. Serum prolactin continues to decrease for at least 7 years during continuous use.[1] The prolactin level in a mother with established lactation may not affect her ability to breastfeed.
Possible alternatives to Guanfacine
Enalapril, Hydrochlorothiazide, Methyldopa, Propranolol.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Hauger-Klevene JH, Balossi EC, Scornavacchi JC. Effects of guanfacine on growth hormone, prolactin, renin, lipoproteins and glucose in essential hypertension. Am J Cardiol. 1986;57:27E-31E. PMID: 3513527
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
