Clonidine is a medication used to treat hypertension, ADHD, drug withdrawal (alcohol, opioids, or smoking), menopausal flushing, diarrhea, spasticity and certain pain conditions. It is used by mouth, by injection, or as a skin patch. The onset of action is typically within an hour with the effects on blood pressure lasting for up to eight hours.
Common side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, headaches, and sleepiness. Severe side effects may include hallucinations, heart arrhythmias, and confusion. If rapidly stopped, withdrawal effects may occur. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended. Clonidine lowers blood pressure by stimulating α2 receptors in the brain, which results in the relaxation of many arteries.
Synonyms
Catapress