Guanfacine

Guanfacine is a selective alpha-2A agonist used primarily for treating ADHD in children & adults, improving prefrontal cortex function, working memory, & impulse control.

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Evidence last reviewed: 05 Apr 2026

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Research / clinical compound

Not a routine supplement — not recommended for self-directed use.

Information here is educational only, not a recommendation to use. See our Safety page.

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Evidence

5 records

5 recordsBest grade:High

Biomarkers

Focus / AttentionCognitive Function

Evidence is from research or clinical settings — does not imply safety outside supervised contexts.

Guanfacine has moderate to high evidence supporting its efficacy in reducing ADHD symptoms across various age groups. However, the evidence for adults is less robust compared to children and adolescents, indicating a need for further research in this demographic.

ADHD symptom reduction

Children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD · Systematic review

High

Guanfacine was found to be effective in reducing ADHD symptoms compared to placebo.

Dose in study: 2 mg(trial dose)

Citation: Cortese et al. (2018). Comparative efficacy and tolerability of medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents, and adults: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet Psychiatry.

ADHD symptom reduction

Children and adolescents with ADHD · Systematic review

Moderate

Guanfacine was effective in reducing ADHD symptoms in children & adolescents.

Dose in study: 2 mg(trial dose)

Citation: Catalá-López et al. (2017). The pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: A systematic review with network meta-analyses of randomised trials. Journal of Psychopharmacology.