An open trial of guanfacine in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

Medications such as clonidine have been shown to facilitate calming, to enhance frustration tolerance, and to reduce aggression in hyperactive children. The use of guanfacine (Tenex), an alpha 2 noradrenergic agonist similar to clonidine, was studied as an alternative because of its longer excretion half-life, decreased sedative side effects, and more selective binding profile.

METHOD:

Thirteen psychiatric outpatients diagnosed with ADHD were rated at baseline and while taking guanfacine to determine its efficacy as a treatment for ADHD. Comparisons of Conners parent ratings within subject were used to measure behavioral changes in the subjects.

RESULTS:

During guanfacine treatment, patients' mean scores improved significantly overall (1.27 off, 0.85 on, t = 2.55, p < .015) and in Conners Hyperactivity (1.63 off, 0.94 on, t = 3.69, p < .01), Inattention (1.92 off, 1.21 on, t = 3.32, p < .01), and Immaturity (1.81 off, 0.92 on, t = 3.77, p < .01) factors.

CONCLUSIONS:

This preliminary study indicates that guanfacine is a beneficial and useful treatment of ADHD, reducing hyperactive behaviors and enabling greater attentional ability with minimal side effects. We are currently collecting data in a double-blind study measuring guanfacine's efficacy with and in comparison to methylphenidate.

• Authors: R D Hunt, A F Arnsten, M D Asbell
• Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry) Vol. 34 Issue 1 Pg. 50-4 (Jan 1995) ISSN: 0890-8567 [Print] United States
• PMID: 7860456 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Guanfacine

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity (diagnosis, drug therapy)
• Child
• Child, Preschool
• Female
• Guanfacine (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Male
• Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
• Treatment Outcome