Clonidine dosage, side effects
Clonidine dosage, side effects:
Generic Name: Clonidine
Drug Class: Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist (centrally acting)
Brand Names
Clonidine is sold under various brand names worldwide, including:
United States & Canada
- Catapres (original brand name, now mostly available as generic)
- Catapres-TTS (transdermal patch)
- Kapvay (extended-release for ADHD)
- Nexiclon XR (extended-release oral solution for ADHD)
- Duraclon (epidural injection for pain, rarely used)
International Brand Names
- Dixarit (Canada, Europe – lower-dose formulation for migraines)
- Clophelin (some European countries)
- Arkamin (Japan)
- Clonilou (France)
- Isoglaucon (Germany, for glaucoma, rarely used now)
Forms & Dosages
- Immediate-Release Tablets (Catapres, generic) – 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg, 0.3 mg
- Extended-Release Tablets (Kapvay) – 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg
- Transdermal Patch (Catapres-TTS) – Releases 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg, or 0.3 mg per day over 7 days
- Oral Solution (Nexiclon XR) – Extended-release liquid
- Epidural Injection (Duraclon) – For severe cancer pain (rarely used)
Primary Uses
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – First-line in some cases, often combined with other drugs.
- ADHD (Kapvay, Nexiclon XR) – Non-stimulant option for children and adults.
- Opioid/Alcohol Withdrawal – Helps reduce anxiety, agitation, and blood pressure spikes.
- Menopausal Hot Flashes – Off-label use.
- Tourette’s Syndrome & Anxiety – Sometimes prescribed off-label.
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulates alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain, reducing sympathetic nervous system activity.
- Lowers norepinephrine release, leading to decreased heart rate and blood pressure.
Side Effects
- Common: Dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, fatigue.
- Serious (rare): Severe hypotension, bradycardia, rebound hypertension if stopped abruptly.
Key Considerations
- Do not stop suddenly (can cause dangerous BP spikes).
- Patch reduces side effects (bypasses digestive system).
- Sedating effect – Often taken at night.
