Guanabenz acetate

Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure if you have disorders of the kidney or liver.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Guanabenz acetate

Guanabenz may intensify the effects of alcohol. Use of alcohol should be avoided.

If guanabenz is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining guanabenz with the following:

Antihistamines such as Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton, and Tavist
Drugs that depress the central nervous system such as Halcion, Valium, and phenobarbital

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of guanabenz during pregnancy have not been adequately studied, but it may affect the fetus. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Guanabenz may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Guanabenz acetate is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Guanabenz acetate

ADULTS

Your doctor will adjust the dosage of Guanabenz acetate to meet your individual needs.

The usual starting dose is 4 milligrams 2 times per day, whether guanabenz is used alone or with a thiazide type of diuretic.

Your doctor may increase the dosage in increments of 4 to 8 milligrams per day every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on your response.

The maximum reported dose has been 32 milligrams twice daily, but doses as high as this are rarely needed.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of Guanabenz acetate have not been established in children under 12 years of age.

OLDER ADULTS

Older adults should use Guanabenz acetate with caution.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of guanabenz overdose may include:
  Excessive contraction of the pupils, irritability low blood pressure, sleepiness, slow heartbeat, sluggishness