Clonidine

Full Prescribing Information

DailyMed Drug Information

Forms/Strengths

Age: ≥ 6yr
Onset: 30-60 min (oral)
Duration: 6-12 hours
Considerations: Monitor for bradycardia and hypotension; taper off gradually to avoid rebound hypertension
Initial Dose:
- 27-40 kg: 0.05 mg nightly
- 40+ kg: 0.1 mg nightly
Titration:
- Increase 0.05mg every 3-7 d taper gradually over 2-4 days to discontinue
Max Dose:
- 27-40 kg: 0.2 mg/day
- 40+ kg: 0.4 mg/day

Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist; reduces sympathetic outflow
Decreases hyperactivity, impulsivity, and improves sleep in ADHD
Off-label use for ADHD, especially in patients with comorbid tic disorders or poor stimulant response; often used as an adjunct to stimulants
Common side effects: drowsiness, sedation, dry mouth, hypotension

Take at the same time each day for consistency.
Can be taken with or without food.
Swallow whole; do not crush or chew.
If used for ADHD, often given twice daily, with the larger dose at bedtime to minimize drowsiness.
Do not suddenly stop taking; tapering may be required to prevent rebound hypertension.
Transdermal patches should be applied to a hairless area on the upper outer arm or chest.

When to Call the Doctor:
- Severe dizziness, fainting, or low blood pressure.
- Slow or irregular heart rate.
- Signs of over-sedation, such as excessive drowsiness or difficulty waking.
- Mood changes, hallucinations, or unusual behavior.
- Severe headache, blurred vision, or confusion (possible hypertensive rebound if stopped abruptly).
Safety Tips:
- Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly.
- Avoid alcohol and sedatives, which may enhance drowsiness.
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent dizziness.
- Do not suddenly discontinue, as this may lead to rebound hypertension.
- Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until individual response is known.
Parent Tips for Pediatric Patients:
- May cause daytime drowsiness; consider giving the larger dose at bedtime.
- Monitor for irritability, behavioral changes, or mood swings.
- Encourage hydration and salt intake if dizziness occurs.
- Ensure the child does not engage in high-risk activities (e.g., climbing, swimming unsupervised) if excessively drowsy.
- Keep in child-proof packaging to prevent accidental overdose.

Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to clonidine or formulation components.
- Use with caution in patients with severe heart disease, bradycardia, or hypotension.
Pregnancy:
- Category C; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
- May cause neonatal withdrawal symptoms.
Lactation:
- Excreted in breast milk; use with caution due to potential effects on infant blood pressure.
Drug Interactions:
- CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines) may increase sedation.
- Beta-blockers may enhance bradycardia; caution if discontinuing either drug.
- Stimulants (e.g., amphetamines) may counteract clonidine’s effects.
- Antihypertensive medications may lead to excessive blood pressure lowering.