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Information on Clonidine

This article is a general view of Clonidine for comparison with other available ADHD medications. I have taken all of the information in the published medical manuals and text books and summarized it for your convince.
I am not a doctor. Talk to a one for any real advice.

Clonidine is not used to treat ADHD directly. It is used to offset some of the side effects of ADHD medications. It lowers your blood pressure which can be increased by ADHD medications. Your blood pressure may rise significantly if you miss a dose of this medication.

The information I state here is all available in published medical manuals and text books. I summarized for your convince.
I am not a doctor. Talk to a one for any real advice.

Other names:
Tenex, Apo-, Novo-, or Nu-Clonidine, Catapres, Dixant.

Available in:
Tablets

Drug Class:
Centrally acting antihypertensive/vascular stabilizer

Why it is prescribed:
To treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Also used for relief of menopausal flushing.

How it works:
This drug acts upon certain areas of the central nervous system regulates activity of the heart and the smooth muscle tissue surrounding arteries. It causes the blood vessels to relax and widen, which lowers blood pressure. It reduces the response of peripheral blood vessels to stimuli.


Clonidine Side Effects

Serious, seek immediate medical help:
when used as directed serious side effects are less likely.

Common, speak with your family doctor or prescriber:
dry mouth, reduced saliva, reduced tear production, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation.

Less Common, speak with your doctor at your next scheduled visit:
mental depression, swelling of feet and lower legs, they'll are cold fingertips and throws, vivid dreams are nightmares, hair loss.

Overdose: Go immediately to the emergency room.
Low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, difficulty breathing, severe dizziness, confusion, weakness and faintness, constricted pupils.




Dosage Information

Typical dosage:
Adults: initial dose is 0.1 mg, two times per day. Your doctor may increase this to 0.3 mg, two times per day. Most patients achieve adequate blood pressure control with 0.6 mg or less per day. Children: pediatrician will determine proper dosage.

Onset effect:
Usually between 30 and 60 minutes.

Duration:
Up to 8 hours.

Storage:
Store in a tightly sealed container away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.

Missed dose:
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearer the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

Stopping the Drug:
Stopping this drug abruptly can lead to a dangerous increase in blood pressure. Do not stop taking the drug on your own, even if you're feeling better. Your doctor will gradually decrease your dose if necessary.

Prolonged Use:
long-term use may be necessary and may lead to an increased risk of side effects.

Precautions

Over 60:
side effects may be more likely and more severe in older patients.

Driving hazardous work:
this medication may cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid potentially dangerous activities until you know how it affects you.

Pregnancy:
Clonidine use is not recommended during pregnancy.

Breast feeding:
Clonidine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor for advice.

Infants and Children:
this drug is not recommended for young patients.

Interactions

Drug:
Consult your doctor for specific advice if you're taking tricyclic antidepressants, beta-blockers, MAO inhibitors.

Disease:
Tell your doctor if you have any of the following: heart and blood vessel disease, strokes, arrhythmia, kidney disease, depression, lupus.

What is the use of Clonidine?

It was to reduce the side effects of ADHD medications.
If you feel that the potential risks are worth the gains then go for it!
If you need more here are many other natural remedies and treatments for ADHD.



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