Context and a general overview

Clonidine serves as the active ingredient.

Main indication: treatment of hypertension. Clonidine may be given alone or combined with other antihypertensive agents depending on clinical need.

Common oral strengths include 0.1 mg tablets; 0.2 mg and 0.three milligram tablets are also available in the United States. Transdermal systems deliver approximately 0.one milligram with 0.dosing option: 2 mg, or 0.3 mg over a 24 hour period per patch.

The medicine is offered as immediate-release tablets, some extended-release preparations for off-label uses, and weekly transdermal patches. For safety information summary before you begin the operation therapy, see Hazard prevention measures and Drug-Drug Connections and real time the act of connecting with otherss enable quick problem solving..

What Makes It Work

Clonidine acts centrally as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. Stimulation of these receptors in the brainstem reduces sympathetic nervous system output, which lowers heart rate, decreases peripheral vascular resistance, and reduces blood pressure.

Because of its central nervous system effect, some people experience sedation and dry mouth. If these or other effects become bothersome, consult your clinician; see Possible physiological after effects.

Dosing Details and Directions

Follow the dosing plan your prescriber provides. The following are typical adult regimens for immediate-release tablets used in hypertension:

Swallow tablets with water and try to take them at consistent times relative to meals. Do not share your prescription medicine. If you feel faint or unusually sleepy during treatmentthe review cycle the Risk reduction measures subdivision.

Important safety note: do not discontinue clonidine abruptly. Sudden stopping can cause rebound hypertension which may be severe. If you need to stop, your prescriber will recommend a gradual taper. When clonidine is used together with a beta-blocker, clinicians may alter the other agent first to reduce the risk of rebound phenomena; see OTC and Prescription Drug Cooperative exchanges.

Specific instructions for patch use are available at Guidelines for transdermal patch use.

Transdermal patch wear and use

Basic steps for applying the weekly patch:

Dispose of used patches by folding the adhesive sides together and discarding out of reach of children and pets. See Store Safely: Recommendations for a storage solution should balance access and protection. and disposal activity reminders.

Hazard prevention measures

If after effects interfere with daily activities, consult your prescriber and analyze Unwanted reactions that could occur.

Treatments contraindicated under these conditions

Use this with prudent care. and under close medical supervision in patients with acute myocardial ischemia, severe coronary insufficiency, severe depression, advanced renal disease, or severe peripheral vascular disease.

Possible drug incidental effects

Seek emergency care if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as hives, breathing difficulty, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

More common, generally transient effects include:

Contact your prescriber promptly for symptoms that may indicate a serious problem:

For medicines that commonly increase risk when combined with clonidine, see Drug Interaction Checks.

Interaction patterns of Medications

Tell your prescriber and pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements you take. Noted exchanges include:

Keep an updated medication list available to healthcare providers to reduce the risk of harmful positive the back and forth of communications enhance user satisfaction..

Steps for a Dose was not taken as planned

If you miss one tablet dose and it is not close to the time of your next scheduled dose, take the skipped dose when you remember. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the skipped dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not make up for a skipped dose by taking another dose.

If a patch falls off or is lost, apply a replacement to a different site and continue with your usual weekly schedule when possible. Frequent i did not take the doses increase the risk of rebound hypertension. For tapering instructions, consult Dose Amount and Directions.

OD and Medical Emergency

Symptoms of non fatal overdose may include profound drowsiness, very small pupils, severe slow heart rate, low blood pressure, slow or shallow breathing, fainting, or an initial brief rise in blood pressure with head pain and visual changes.

In an emergency call 911 or your local emergency services. In the United States, you may also contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate advice.

Best Practices for Storage unit

Options for Similar Drugs and Optional solutions

Treatment choices depend on individual health needs and comorbid conditions. Alternative options include other central alpha-2 agonists and multiple first-line antihypertensive classes.

Discuss comparative side effect profiles, status monitoring needs, and costs coordinated with your prescriber. See United States Price Range Estimates designed for typical cost comparisons.

US Anticipated Prices

Prices without insurance vary by manufacturer, pharmacy, and discount programs. The following are approximate retail ranges in US dollars for commonly used supplies and should be considered illustrative only.

Insurance copays, manufacturer coupons, mail order pharmacies, and discount programs can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs. Scan prices to save money at local and mail order pharmacies and speak with your pharmacist about savings programs.