Generic Clonidine

Chemical Name: CLONIDINE

Common uses

This medicine is an alpha agonist used to treat high blood pressure. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking tricyclic antidepressants or medicine for heart conditions or high blood pressure (beta blockers). Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once. If you miss 2 or more doses in a row, contact your doctor.

Cautions

Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your doctor. This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. Check with your doctor before drinking alcohol.

Before you begin taking any new medicine either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. If you experience dry mouth, use sugarless candy or gum, or melt bits of ice in your mouth. For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy.

This medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, headache, or constipation. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

Accidental overdose of clonidine is an increasing cause of poisoning in children 3 and under. If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slowed heartbeat, weakness, sleepiness, vomiting, and constricted pupils.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions.

Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.