Clonidine is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and high blood pressure (hypertension). This prescription drug regulates behavior by working in the part of the brain that governs attention and emotion. Clonidine belongs to a class of drugs called centrally acting alpha-agonists.

As a long-term medication, Clonidine should be taken as prescribed.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Clonidine can be taken with or without food
• Clonidine is taken in the morning and at bedtime. If one dose is higher than the other, take the higher dose at bedtime.
• Do not crush, cut, or chew this medication
• Do not stop using Clonidine abruptly. Failure to take Clonidine as prescribed can worsen ADHD symptoms and lead to withdrawal side effects.
• If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled.

Make sure to tell your doctor:

• If you have any drug or other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history, especially if you have bradycardia, hypotension, or heart disease.
• If you have a history of heart attack, stroke, fainting, kidney disease, or dehydration.
• If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breast-feeding. This medication may alter milk production.

Other important information:

• Clonidine is intended for use by people aged 6-18 years.
• Clonidine may cause drowsiness and reduced alertness. Ensure that you know your reaction to Clonidine before starting tasks that require full alertness (i.e. driving).
• Disclose you are taking Clonidine before any kind of surgery, including dental surgery.
• Check with your doctor immediately if you develop a skin rash, hives, or other symptoms indicative of allergies.

Common side effects of Clonidine:

• Constipation
• Darkening of skin
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting

Seek medical help if you experience any of these side effects:

• Mental depression
• Swelling in feet or lower legs
• Blistering, crusting, or burning of the skin
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Paleness or cold feeling in fingertips or toes
• Pounding, slow heartbeat
• Symptoms of an overdose include: dizziness, pinpoint pupils of the eyes, and extreme fatigue.

What is Clonidine used for?

Clonidine is used for controlling blood pressure or treating symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works in the brain and alters certain nerve impulses, resulting in the blood vessels relaxing. It also increases attention and decreases restlessness by targeting parts of the brain that regulate attention and emotion.

How do I prevent an overdose of Clonidine?

For dosage requirements, follow your doctor’s instructions. As little as 0.1 milligrams can produce signs of toxicity in children. Symptoms of overdose typically occur within 30 minutes to two hours after taking Clonidine. Contact medical help if you are displaying signs of an overdose.