{"id":53222,"date":"2022-08-18T11:08:02","date_gmt":"2022-08-18T15:08:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=53222"},"modified":"2025-10-22T16:54:59","modified_gmt":"2025-10-22T20:54:59","slug":"clonidine-side-effects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/clonidine-side-effects\/","title":{"rendered":"Clonidine side effects and how to avoid them"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#common-clonidine-side-effects\">Common clonidine side effects<\/a>\u00a0| <a href=\"#serious-side-effects\">Serious side effects<\/a> | <a href=\"#weight-changes\">Weight changes<\/a> | <a href=\"#hair-loss\">Hair loss<\/a> | <a href=\"#sexual-dysfunction\">Sexual dysfunction<\/a> | <a href=\"#side-effects-timeline\">Side effects timeline<\/a> | <a href=\"#contraindications\">Contraindications<\/a> | <a href=\"#warnings\">Warnings<\/a> | <a href=\"#interactions\">Interactions<\/a> | <a href=\"#how-to-avoid-side-effects\">How to avoid side effects<\/a>\u00a0 | <a href=\"#how-to-treat-side-effects\">How to treat side effects<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/clonidine-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a generic prescription drug taken daily as a generic tablet or weekly as a brand-name skin patch (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/catapres-tts-1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Catapres TTS<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) to reduce <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/blood-pressure-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">high blood pressure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (hypertension). It can also be administered as a spinal injection to help relieve severe pain due to cancer. Finally, clonidine extended-release tablets (also sold as the brand-name <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/kapvay\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kapvay<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) are given to children and adolescents to treat <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/adhd-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">attention deficit hyperactivity disorder<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (ADHD). <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/clonidine-hcl\/what-is\">Clonidine<\/a> is an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/alpha-blockers\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">alpha agonist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">; it affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord, reducing their effect on involuntary activities like tightening blood vessels and causing the heart to beat. As a result, blood vessels widen and the heart slows down, reducing blood pressure. This same mechanism helps shut down pain signals in the spinal cord. However, no one is certain how clonidine helps with ADHD symptoms. No matter what indication clonidine is treating, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Catapres-clonidine-hydrochloride-1744.327\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">most people<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> taking it will have one or more unwanted side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"common-clonidine-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of clonidine<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common side effects of clonidine are low blood pressure, dry mouth, and anxiety. In order of incidence, the most common <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/18305\/clonidine\/Adverse-Reactions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">side effects of clonidine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anxiety<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drowsiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Itching<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infection<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stomach pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nightmares<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Irritability<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insomnia<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loss of appetite<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Excessive sweating<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Darkening of the skin<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Urinary incontinence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shaking<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stuffy nose<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tiredness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decrease in sexual interest<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sore throat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mood changes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure is the most common side effect of clonidine spinal injections. The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=2a5b46ec-4c16-48a5-9e58-8d28a3f21274\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">others<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slowed heart rate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rebound high blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confusion<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleepiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fever<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea and vomiting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chest pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hallucinations<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ringing in the ears<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"serious-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious side effects of clonidine<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most serious side effects of clonidine include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fainting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow heart rate (bradycardia)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart block<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious gastrointestinal problems such as GI block or ileus (spinal injections only)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Withdrawal symptoms<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rebound high blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Severe allergic reactions<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"weight-changes\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weight changes<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weight gain is a rare side effect of clonidine, occurring in less than one percent of people taking the drug. Clonidine also does not increase appetite, though <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC2044771\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">animal trials<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> show it may make rats eat more. People taking clonidine, however, have not reported increased eating, so it\u2019s safe to say clonidine has little to no effect on appetite or weight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"hair-loss\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hair loss<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hair loss is a very rare side effect of clonidine. Its estimated incidence is 1 in 500 patients. At that low of a rate, it\u2019s uncertain if the drug is responsible. If clonidine does increase hair thinning, it will take a few months to be noticed. Talk to the prescribing healthcare provider if hair seems to be thinning.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"sexual-dysfunction\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sexual dysfunction<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine interferes with sexual function, particularly in men. Libido decrease and erectile dysfunction are the most common problems, each affecting about 3% of patients taking clonidine. The rate of impotence, however, may be as high as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ahajournals.org\/doi\/pdf\/10.1161\/01.hyp.12.1.1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">25%<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. While erectile dysfunction is generally a problem with blood pressure medications, clonidine and other drugs that widen blood vessels may be worse than others. Because sexual problems are a prominent reason men stop taking blood pressure drugs, it\u2019s important to keep taking the medicine and tell the prescribing healthcare provider about the issue. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/2872991\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Switching to other antihypertensive treatments could help fix the problem<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"side-effects-timeline\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How soon do clonidine side effects start?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some clonidine side effects can occur rapidly after the first dose, such as low blood pressure, slowed heart rate, itching, or allergic reactions. Most side effects, however, happen after one or more doses have been taken, including dry mouth, headache, drowsiness, and some serious side effects such as heart block. Other side effects can be delayed and take a few weeks or months of treatment before becoming an issue. These include anxiety, irritability, loss of appetite, and severe gastrointestinal problems.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long do clonidine side effects last?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine side effects, though commonly experienced, typically resolve when the drug is stopped. How long it will take for the side effects to fade will vary widely. For some people, it may take a day, while it may be a week or more for others. That\u2019s how much variability there is in people\u2019s ability to eliminate the drug. Side effects can last longer in those that have been taking clonidine for a longer duration of time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the long-term side effects of clonidine?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a blood pressure or ADHD medication, clonidine is intended for long-term use. There are no side effects due to long-term use other than possible hair loss or weight gain, both of which are rare and may not be due to the drug. Many side effects will improve as the body adapts to the drug. Most will fade when the drug is stopped.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"contraindications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine contraindications<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine is contraindicated in anyone with known allergies to the drug. Clonidine injections are also prohibited in people with an active infection at the injection site or those with bleeding disorders or taking <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/anticoagulants\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">anticoagulants<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Though it\u2019s not prohibited, women who are pregnant may want to avoid taking clonidine. Drug levels are high in the placenta and four times higher in amniotic fluid than in the woman\u2019s blood. A healthcare professional may advise other blood pressure treatments.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breastfeeding<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Women who are breastfeeding are not prohibited from taking clonidine. However, no studies show that it\u2019s safe for the baby. Clonidine is present in breast milk and theoretically could affect the child. Talk to the prescriber about the pros, cons, and alternatives to clonidine when nursing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Only clonidine extended-release tablets have been FDA approved for children, but only for ADHD. Transdermal patches are sometimes prescribed <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/off-label-prescription-drugs\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">off-label<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to children, but this use is not proven to be safe or effective. The FDA has advised that children taking clonidine should be monitored for slow heart rate or low blood pressure.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seniors<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because of declining kidney function, adults older than 65 years of age may not eliminate clonidine as efficiently as young adults. As a result, clonidine may build up to higher concentrations in the blood, raising the risk for side effects. In seniors, healthcare professionals will usually start with a lower dose and monitor for side effects during treatment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"warnings\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine warnings<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a drug that affects the central nervous system, clonidine carries a few risks. These risks may be more pronounced for some people.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cautions<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some medical conditions could be worsened by clonidine. Others may make patients more vulnerable to side effects. These include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Kidney dysfunction: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Declining kidney function slows the body\u2019s elimination of clonidine and raises the risk of side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cardiovascular problems: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some heart or cerebrovascular problems can be worsened when clonidine is taken, including heart attack, coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, heart conduction problems, and heart block. People with low blood pressure, uncontrolled blood pressure, orthostatic hypotension, and problems with fainting will also require close monitoring when given clonidine.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Raynaud\u2019s syndrome:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Clonidine can worsen Raynaud\u2019s syndrome.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Depression:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Clonidine can worsen depression.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Surgery:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Because of its effects on the heart and blood pressure, clonidine should not be taken several hours before and after surgery.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Withdrawal<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although clonidine does not create a physical dependence, the abrupt discontinuation of the drug can precipitate withdrawal. It could be severe and cause strokes or even death. However, the most perilous withdrawal risk is rebound high blood pressure. Other symptoms of clonidine withdrawal include agitation, nervousness, headache, and tremor. Caregivers of children taking clonidine are advised to be especially wary. Children commonly have digestive system problems that can make them vomit up their dose, making them more likely to experience clonidine withdrawal.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abuse<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine is not considered to have a risk of drug abuse.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overdose<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get emergency medical care or call a poison control center if too much clonidine is taken. The drug slows down the nervous system and, in high enough doses, produces serious problems such as low blood pressure, heart rate abnormalities, breathing problems, seizures, and coma. Children are particularly vulnerable to overdoses.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms of an overdose occur rapidly, usually in a half hour to one hour after ingesting clonidine. They include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slowed heart rate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow and shallow breathing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleepiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fall in body temperature<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weakness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow reflexes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The maximum daily dose of clonidine is 2.4 grams per day for adults and 0.4 grams per day for children and adolescents.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\t\t<div class=\"singlecare-dynamic-newsletter-wrapper sin-newsletter-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"heading\">Get our heart health newsletter<\/span>\n\t\t\t<form class=\"form-wrapper\" data-newsletter-form=\"1\" data-subsource=\"Heart Health Newsletter\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"input-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"dynamic-email\">Email<\/label>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"email\" id=\"dynamic-email\" class=\"email\" required>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"input-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class=\"submit-form-btn\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Click to sign up\">\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/form>\n\t\t\t<p class=\"success-message\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"interactions\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine interactions<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonidine has several drug interactions. To understand them, remember that clonidine is a depressant. It slows down the nervous system, lowers blood pressure, slows the heart, and affects the conductivity of the nerves that power the heart. This means that clonidine must be used cautiously with other CNS depressants, blood pressure drugs, and drugs that slow the heart or alter its conductivity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CNS depressants will worsen the depressant effects of clonidine. Besides sedation, depressants can also slow down the heart and breathing. Here\u2019s a short list of CNS depressants that should be used in caution with clonidine:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alcohol<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Marijuana or cannabidiols<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/opioids\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opioids<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/barbiturates\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Barbiturates<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sedatives and sleeping aids<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/benzodiazepines\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benzodiazepines<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/anxiety-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anxiety medications<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/gabapentin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gabapentinoids<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antihistamines\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamines<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/ssris\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SSRIs<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/snris\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SNRIs<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/maois\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MAO inhibitors<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antipsychotics\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antipsychotics<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs that lower blood pressure will add to the blood pressure lowering effects of clonidine. There are many different types, but the most serious drug interactions are caused by blood pressure drugs that also slow down the heart, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/beta-blockers\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">beta blockers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/calcium-channel-blockers\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">calcium channel blockers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, drugs that affect heart rhythm and conductivity can potentially cause serious heart problems when taken with clonidine. These include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Digitalis medicines<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart rate and heart rhythm medications (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antiarrhythmics\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antiarrhythmics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/anticonvulsants\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anticonvulsants<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-avoid-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to avoid clonidine side effects<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most people will experience adverse effects when taking clonidine. Thankfully, they tend to be mild. Some rules-of-thumb can help minimize any problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Make sure the prescriber has a complete medical history<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most efficient way to prevent clonidine side effects is to tell the prescribing healthcare provider about every current and past health condition as well as all the prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements being taken, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=ee9ad9ed-6d9f-4ee1-9d7f-cfad438df388\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">especially<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart problems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Raynaud\u2019s phenomenon<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any alcohol use<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any use of sedatives, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any use of heart medications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blood pressure medications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Any upcoming surgeries<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy or any plans to become pregnant<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breastfeeding or any plans to breastfeed<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Take clonidine as directed<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Follow the instructions given by the prescriber or written on the prescription label. Do not take extra medicine.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Do not stop taking clonidine<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Suddenly stopping clonidine could cause withdrawal side effects that range from unpleasant to life-threatening. If the drug is causing problems or side effects are intolerable, talk to the prescriber about quitting. Quitting may require taking a steadily decreasing dose over a span of a few days.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Get help if vomiting\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If vomiting is a problem, there\u2019s a chance that the drug is being thrown up, too. That\u2019s another cause of clonidine withdrawal. Call the prescriber if vomiting is interfering with taking the drug. This is especially important if the patient is a child.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Stop drinking alcohol<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both alcohol and clonidine are depressants, so they will increase each other\u2019s effects on drowsiness, dizziness, low blood pressure, fainting, and slowed breathing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Avoid medicines and supplements that cause drowsiness<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If combining alcohol with clonidine is a problem, so are prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements that are also depressants. These include drugs like sleeping pills and strong pain medications, but they also include popular over-the-counter drugs and supplements like antihistamines, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/melatonin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">melatonin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and \u201ccold and flu\u201d medications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-treat-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to treat side effects of clonidine<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There will come a time when someone taking clonidine will have to manage side effects. Here\u2019s how to do it.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drowsiness and dizziness<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If tired or dizzy, sit down. Stay seated until the attack passes. Don\u2019t do risky things when overly tired or feeling dizzy. Driving, playing hazardous sports, operating machinery, or even chopping vegetables creates a risk for injury. Make sure to stand slowly as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chew sugarless gum, eat sugarless candy, take frequent sips of water, or use a humidifier. If the problem gets too bad, the prescribing healthcare provider may have treatment options such as artificial saliva.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Immediately talk to a healthcare professional if vomiting occurs within half an hour of taking clonidine. Do not take a replacement dose until told to do so.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Erection problems<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get medical advice from the prescriber if getting and maintaining erections is a problem. There may be better alternatives for controlling blood pressure.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow or irregular heartbeats<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the heart is beating slowly or seems off, contact a healthcare professional.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Common clonidine side effects\u00a0| Serious side effects | Weight changes | Hair loss | Sexual dysfunction | Side effects timeline | Contraindications | Warnings | Interactions | How to avoid side effects\u00a0 | How to treat side effects Clonidine is a generic prescription drug taken daily as a generic tablet or weekly as a brand-name [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":53226,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4589],"tags":[15107,737,12752],"coauthors":[8861],"class_list":["post-53222","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-info","tag-adhd","tag-heart-health","tag-medication-side-effects","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Clonidine side effects and how to avoid them | SingleCare<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Weight changes, hair loss, and sexual dysfunction are common clonidine side effects. 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