Intuniv: Side Effects and Dosage for ADHD

General Overview:

• Intuniv is a non-stimulant medication used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17.
• It is available in four tablet strengths: 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, and 4 mg.
• The recommended starting dosage is 1 mg once daily, which can be gradually increased weekly as needed until a therapeutic effect is achieved, typically 3 mg or 4 mg per day.

Common Side Effects:

• Somnolence (sleepiness): This is the most frequently reported side effect, affecting up to 38% of individuals taking Intuniv. Generally, it improves with continued use.
• Other common side effects include headaches, fatigue, upper abdominal pain, nausea, lethargy, dizziness, blurred vision, decreased blood pressure, and decreased appetite.

Warnings and Precautions:

• Use cautiously in patients with low blood pressure, low heart rate, heart block, or a history of fainting.
• Exercise caution when combining Intuniv with certain medications, including ketoconazole, rifampin, valproic acid, antihypertensive drugs, and CNS depressants (sedatives, antipsychotics, etc.).
• Avoid taking Intuniv with high-fat meals as it can interfere with absorption. It can be taken with water, milk, or other liquids.
• Do not abruptly discontinue Intuniv; gradually reduce the dosage over several weeks when discontinuing treatment.

Important Information:

• Intuniv tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken.
• Unlike some other ADHD medications, Intuniv is not a controlled substance, making prescription refills more accessible for parents.
• Intuniv does not typically cause significant appetite suppression, which can be advantageous for children susceptible to weight gain on stimulant medications.

Conclusion:

Intuniv can be a suitable treatment option for children with ADHD who experience difficulties tolerating other medications or for whom stimulant medications have not been effective. It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage and monitor for potential side effects.