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Clonidine
INFORMATION ABOUT CLONIDINE
Clonidine Uses
Clonidine is used in the treatment of Hypertension (high blood pressure) and opioid withdrawal. It can also be used to prevent migraine attacks and hot flushes that may occur in women during the menopause.
How Clonidine works
Clonidine is an alpha-2 agonist. It works by relaxing blood vessels which makes the heart more efficient at pumping blood around the body.
Common side effects of Clonidine
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Dizziness, Dryness in mouth, Headache, Nausea, Fatigue, Orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing), Erectile dysfunction, Enlarged salivary gland
CONTENT DETAILS
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Written By
Dr. Swati Mishra
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Lalit Kanodia
MBA, MD Pharmacology
Last updated
20 Nov 2024 | 05:47 AM (UTC)
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Medicine brands for Clonidine
Expert advice for Clonidine
- Clonidine may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- It may cause you to feel lightheaded especially when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension). Rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
- It may cause dryness of eyes. Take caution while using contact lenses.
- Dry mouth may occur as a side effect. Frequent mouth rinses, good oral hygiene, increased water intake and sugarless candy may help.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Dizziness or fainting may occur, especially when rising from a lying or sitting position. Getting up slowly may help improve the problem.
- Eat healthy (low-fat, high-fibre, low-sodium diet), quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, increase your physical activity, watch your weight, and reduce stress.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Clonidine
Weight gain is not a very common side effect of Clonidine. But, if weight gain worries you, contact your doctor or a nutritionist to help you manage your weight.
No, you should avoid taking alcohol during treatment with Clonidine. The use of alcohol while taking Clonidine may worsen the side effects and may make you feel more drowsy.
Taking more than prescribed Clonidine can be dangerous and may even be life threatening. In overdose, it can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate. If someone has taken too much of Clonidine, rush them to the nearest emergency room or hospital.
Yes, the use of Clonidine can make you feel dizzy. This may occur when you suddenly get up from lying or sitting position. To lower your chances of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
You eat and drink normally while taking Clonidine. However, making lifestyle changes like stop smoking, eating healthy food and exercising regularly can further give a boost to your health.
Depression is a common side effect of Clonidine. Its use may also cause sleeping problems. Other uncommon side effects may include hallucinations, nightmares, and problem with understanding what is happening around you.
You can continue playing sports while taking Clonidine. Exercising regularly can help you in controlling your blood pressure. However, do not over do it or push yourself too hard while exercising or playing sports.