About clonidine hydrochloride
Central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist
Used for
- High blood pressure
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, in extended-release forms
- Some pain or withdrawal symptoms, under specialist care
Usual adult dose
High blood pressure: usually 0.1 mg twice daily, adjusted gradually; doses vary by indication.
Usual dose in children
ADHD: extended-release tablets usually start at 0.1 mg at bedtime, adjusted weekly; immediate-release use depends on specialist guidance.
Common side effects
- Dry mouth
- Sleepiness, dizziness, or fatigue
- Constipation
- Slow heart rate or low blood pressure
Important warnings
- Stopping suddenly can cause dangerous rebound high blood pressure; taper gradually.
- May cause drowsiness and impair driving or alertness.
- Use caution with slow heart rate, heart disease, or kidney impairment.
- Blood pressure and heart rate may need monitoring.
Pregnancy
Use only when prescribed; discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Clonidine passes into breast milk and may affect milk production or the infant; use requires clinical guidance.
Interactions
- Other blood-pressure medicines may increase low blood pressure.
- Sedatives, alcohol, and opioids may increase drowsiness.
- Medicines that slow heart rate may increase bradycardia risk.
- Tricyclic antidepressants may reduce clonidine’s blood-pressure-lowering effect.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.