Intuniv (Guanfacine) Medicare Coverage

Intuniv is a medication that contains the active ingredient Guanfacine. It is used to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD).

Intuniv comes as an extended-release tablet and is usually taken once daily. Intuniv improves symptoms related to ADHD but is not a stimulant medication.

Common side effects of Intuiv include dizziness, sleepiness, dry mouth, headache, constipation, upset stomach, insomnia, irritability, vomiting and loss of appetite.  

How much does Guanfacine ER cost with Medicare?

Guanfacine ER coverage and costs may vary based on the specific plan you have, as well as what coverage stage you're in.

Contact your plan carrier or consult your plan formulary for more cost information.

Does Medicare cover Guanfacine ER?

According to GoodRx, 88% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Guanfacine ER, the generic form of Intuniv, in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Guanfacine ER include copay amounts that can range widely from one plan to another. Plan members may also be responsible for meeting a deductible before the plan’s drug coverage kicks in.
  
  
• Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PD). 89% of 2023 Medicare Advantage plans included prescription drug coverage.²
  
  
• Medicare prescription drugs plans each have their own formulary, or drug list, that details what prescription drugs are covered by the plan and how they are covered.

Drug coverage may vary based on plan availability. You may be able to find Medicare Advantage plan options in your area that cover Guanfacine ER. We represent carriers such as Humana, UnitedHealthcare^®, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna Healthcare, Wellcare, or Kaiser Permanente.

You can also compare Part D prescription drug plans available where you live and enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan online when you visit MyRxPlans.com.

Additional information

Swallow Intuniv whole with some water or another drink. Intuniv cannot be chewed, broken or crushed like other ADHD medications.

Try to avoid taking Intuniv with high-fat meals. Even if you feel well, keep taking Intuniv for control of ADHD symptoms.

Tell your doctor if you experience very bad dizziness, fainting or an abnormal heartbeat while taking Intuniv.

High blood pressure, withdrawal symptoms and extremely fast heartbeat can happen if you stop Intuniv suddenly. Talk to your doctor before stopping this medication.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not healthcare advice, treatment, or diagnosis. It is not an endorsement of or recommendation for this medication. Speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about your specific healthcare needs, including your prescription medications. Only take medication as directed by your doctor.

Coverage and costs of prescription medications will vary by Medicare plan. Not all plans are available in all areas.

Written by Hayden Gharibyar, Pharm.D.