Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 22, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Catapres
- Kapvay
- Nexiclon XR
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet, Extended Release
- Tablet
Therapeutic Class: Antihypertensive
Pharmacologic Class: Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist
Uses for clonidine
Clonidine is used alone or together with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk for heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if the blood pressure is controlled.
Clonidine belongs to the class of medicines called antihypertensives. It works in the brain to change some of the nerve impulses. As a result, the blood vessels relax and blood passes through them more easily, which lowers blood pressure. When the blood pressure is lowered, the amount of blood and oxygen going to the heart is increased.
Clonidine will not cure your high blood pressure, but it does help control it. Therefore, you must continue to use it as directed if you expect to lower your blood pressure and keep it down. You might have to take high blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.
Kapvay® extended-release tablets is used alone or together with other medicines to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by increasing attention and decreasing restlessness in children and adults who are overactive, cannot concentrate for very long, or are easily distracted and impulsive. Clonidine is used as part of a total treatment program that also includes social, educational, and psychological treatment.
Clonidine is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using clonidine
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For clonidine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
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