Is Guanfacine included in the National Medical Insurance List?

Guanfacine was originally used as an antihypertensive drug. With in-depth research on its regulatory effect on the central nervous system, it has now been widely used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Its mechanism of action is to selectively activate central α2A-adrenergic receptors, thereby enhancing neural activity in the prefrontal cortex, improving attention and concentration, and inhibiting hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. It is one of the non-stimulant options in the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents.

Currently, the sustained-release dosage form of guanfacine (such asIntuniv) has been approved as an ADHD treatment drug in many countries such as Europe and the United States. It is especially widely used in patients who are intolerant to methamphetamine-type stimulants or have comorbid problems (such as anxiety and tics). Short-acting preparations are still used for the adjuvant treatment of hypertension in some adults. In addition to ADHD, some countries are also trying to use guanfacine to treat impulsive behavior associated with autism spectrum disorder, which has certain research support.

In the Chinese market, as of now, guanfacine has not been included in the national medical insurance directory as an ADHD indication, and the original drug has not been officially approved for marketing in mainland China. Therefore, patients have limited access to guanfacine treatment resources in China. Imported original drugs can be obtained from Hong Kong or other international medical channels for treatment, but such drugs are not reimbursable by medical insurance, so the cost must be borne by the patients themselves.

With the improvement of the medication system for children with mental illness in the future and the increasing prevalence of ADHDif guanfacine can be approved for domestic marketing and included in the medical insurance catalog, it will greatly reduce the financial burden on patients and promote the standardization of treatment. At present, if patients need to use guanfacine, it is recommended that they understand the characteristics of the drug, evaluate the efficacy and risks, and then choose whether to use overseas drug purchase channels for treatment under the guidance of a professional psychiatrist or pediatrician based on their own economic situation.

Reference materials:https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB01018