Skip to content

Clonidine

Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist, grouped with the centrally acting antihypertensives. It works through the brain’s regulation of heart rate and blood vessel tone rather than on the vessels themselves. Prescribers also use it to prevent migraine attacks and to ease menopausal flushing. It is supplied as 0.1 mg tablets.

Medicine containing Clonidine

Clonidine

Hypertension, Menopausal Flushing

0.1mg

Clonidine tablets contain clonidine and are used for hypertension, menopausal flushing and migraine prophylaxis. They are supplied in a single strength and various pack sizes. You see the price per tablet for each option.

FromUS$0.37/ tabletView

Key points

  • Its site of action is the alpha-2 receptors in the brain; the vessel wall is not the direct target.
  • A dose generally begins working within 30 to 60 minutes and lasts around 6 to 8 hours.
  • Treatment is withdrawn gradually, because stopping suddenly is hazardous.

What clonidine is used for

Three main uses account for most prescriptions: hypertension, migraine prophylaxis and menopausal flushing. In raised blood pressure the goal is a steadier reading and less workload on the heart. For migraine, it is taken to make attacks less frequent. For flushing, it can reduce how often episodes occur. Each use requires a prescriber’s assessment, since the balance of benefit and risk differs between them.

How it works

Clonidine stimulates alpha-2 receptors in the brain. That stimulation suppresses the nerve signals which would otherwise speed the heart and tighten blood vessels. With less of that outflow, blood pressure falls and the nervous system is calmed.

Forms and brands

Clonidine 0.1 mg tablets sit within the Heart & Blood Pressure category. Clonidine is the active ingredient in Catapres. Tablets are the dosage form supplied here. Orders are prepared by pharmacy partners in India and shipped to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

Safety

Clonidine must not be taken by anyone with severe bradyarrhythmia.

Do not discontinue it abruptly; withdrawal needs to be stepped down under medical supervision. The medicine can impair the ability to drive, so how you feel after a dose matters before you get behind the wheel.

Dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness and fatigue are common. Constipation and a further decrease in blood pressure are moderate effects. Bradycardia and arrhythmia are serious and require immediate medical attention.

Beta-blockers, alcohol and sedatives interact with clonidine, and combining them may deepen sedation or the fall in blood pressure. Use with caution in elderly patients. In pregnancy it is not recommended unless a specialist considers it necessary under supervision; it is excreted in breast milk and is not recommended while breastfeeding.

Further reading

Last updated