Guanfacine

Guanfacine (brand name Tenex, and the extended release Intuniv) is a sympatholytic. It is a selective α_2A receptor agonist. These receptors are concentrated heavily in the prefrontal cortexand the locus coeruleus, with the potential to improve attention abilities via modulating post-synaptic α_2A receptors in the prefrontal cortex. Guanfacine lowers both systolic and diastolicblood pressure by activating the central nervous system α-2a norepinephrine autoreceptors, which results in reduced peripheral sympathetic outflow and thus a reduction in peripheralsympathetic tone. Its side-effects are dose dependent, with practically no dryness of the mouth at doses of 2 mg and less