What condition does Clonidine Hydrochloride treat?
Clonidine Hydrochloride is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. This is used along with another medication for hypertension. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney problems
This medicine is a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that helps relax the blood vessels so that blood can easily flow. This is supplied as an extended-release tablet for oral use. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication.
How does Clonidine Hydrochloride work?
Clonidine Hydrochloride stimulates alpha-adrenoceptors in the brain stem. As a result, the sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system is reduced. Among other things, this results in:
- Renal vascular resistance
- Peripheral resistance
- Heart rate
- Blood pressure
You will be able to beat your heart more slowly and easily with this drug. Several chemicals in your blood are controlled, thus lowering your blood pressure.
What is the recommended dosage for Clonidine Hydrochloride?
This prescription is to be taken by mouth usually twice a day. It is taken in the morning and at bedtime. If the doses are not equal, take the larger dose at bedtime to lessen the risk of side effects.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not take more than the prescription. You must take it exactly as it is prescribed. Remember to take it at the same time each day.
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. You may experience symptoms such as headache, agitation, nervousness, and shaking. A quick increase in blood pressure may also befall if the medicine is suddenly stopped. There is a greater risk if you have used this medication for a long period or in high dosages, or if you are also taking a beta-blocker. There have also been rare reports of severe, possibly fatal reactions from stopping this medicine too rapidly. For that reason, you should not run out of this medicine or miss any doses. Tell your doctor right away if you are unable to take the medication. To prevent any reactions while you are stopping treatment, your doctor may lessen your dose slowly. Consult your doctor for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away.
What are the side effects of Clonidine Hydrochloride?
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Trouble sleeping or insomnia
If these side effects persist or get worse, call for medical help or your doctor right away.
What are the precautions in taking Clonidine Hydrochloride?
- Before taking this medication, inform your doctor if you have severe coronary artery disease or heart disease.
- You should not take this if you are allergic to it. You may not also take this drug if you have kidney disease.
- If you are a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, consult your doctor first. This medicine may not be recommended.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages while using this drug.
