Clonidine Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Clonidine Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Catapres
- Kapvay
Drug Class
- Alpha-2 Agonist
Chemical Formula
C9H9Cl2N3
Molecular Weight
230.08 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulation of Alpha-2 Adrenergic Receptors resulting in decreased sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system
Indications
- Hypertension
- ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
- Anxiety Disorders
- Opioid Withdrawal
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Extended-release tablet
- Transdermal patch
Typical Dosage
- 0.1-0.3 mg orally twice a day for hypertension
- 0.1 mg orally twice a day for ADHD
Pediatric Dosage
- Not established for hypertension
- 0.2-0.4 mg orally daily in divided doses for ADHD
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower initial doses recommended due to increased risk of adverse effects
Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Constipation
- Hypotension
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to clonidine
- Severe heart block
- Hypotension
- Acute myocardial infarction
Pregnancy Category
- C
Lactation Safety
- Probably compatible
Drug Interactions
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Tricyclic antidepressants
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
- Respiratory depression
Antidote for Overdose
- Naloxone
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta; found in breast milk
- Metabolism: Metabolized extensively in the liver
- Excretion: Eliminated mainly through the urine
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with depression or psychiatric disorders
- Taper off the medication slowly to avoid rebound hypertension
Warnings
- Abrupt withdrawal can lead to rebound hypertension or tachycardia
- Potential for abuse or misuse
Others
- May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until the effects are known