What is Clonidine?
Clonidine belongs to the class of drugs known as central alpha agonists, which work in the brain to lower blood pressure. It is a medication used for treating high blood pressure, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, menopausal flushing, drug withdrawal, diarrhea, spasticity, and certain pain conditions. It is administered orally, intravenously, or as a skin patch.
Clonidine Uses
This medication is used for treating high blood pressure either alone or in combination with some other medications (hypertension). Lowers high blood pressure aids in the prevention of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely.
How to use clonidine HCl oral
You have to take this medication orally with or without food, usually twice daily, as directed by your doctor (in the morning and at bedtime). If the doses are not equal, take the higher dose before bed to reduce the risk of side effects.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition as well as your response to treatment.
To get the advantage out of this medication, take it on a routine basis. Take it at the same time. Even if you feel fine, continue to take this medication. The majority of people with high blood pressure do not get the side effects of this medicine.
When used for an extended period of time, this medication may not work and may necessitate a different dosing regimen or the administration of additional medication. Consult your doctor if this medication stops working properly (such as your blood pressure readings remain high or increase).
Side Effects
- Dry mouth
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Rash
- Hives
- Swelling of the face
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Hoarseness
Precautions
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it (including having a rash while using clonidine patches) or if you have any other allergies before taking it. Inactive ingredients in this product may cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have kidney disease or heart rhythm problems (such as slow/irregular heartbeat, second- or third-degree atrioventricular block).
Older adults may be more responsive to the product's side effects, particularly dizziness or drowsiness. These side effects may raise the risk of falling and fainting.
This medication should be used only when prescribed by the doctor during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
This medication is transformed in breast milk and may have some unfavorable effects on a nursing infant. Before breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.
Interactions
Drug interactions can change or disturb the way your medications work or put you at risk for serious side effects. Keep a record of everything you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
Inform your doctor if you are taking any other drowsy medications, such as antihistamines ( cetirizine, diphenhydramine), sleep, or anxiety medications (alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants, or opioid pain relievers.
Overdose
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body’s functions.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take one of the dosages, take it as soon as you remember. skip the missed dose and proceed with your daily schedule. To cope up with a missed dose, do not take a double dose.
Storage
Exposure of medicine to heat, air, and light may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.
Clonidine vs Klonopin
Clonidine |
Klonopin |
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Clonidine is a member of a class of drugs known as central alpha agonists, which work in the brain to lower blood pressure. | Klonopin is a prescription medication in the Antianxiety Agents, Anxiolytics, Benzodiazepines, Anticonvulsants, Benzodiazepine class. |
This medication is used for treating high blood pressure either alone or in combination with other medications. | Klonopin is a medication used to treat seizure and panic disorder symptoms. |
It relaxes blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely | It works by increasing the levels of a calming chemical in your brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This can relieve anxiety, stop seizures and fits, and relax tense muscles, depending on your health condition. |