clonidine
Clonidine is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. Clonidine is also used alone or in combination with other medications as part of a treatment program to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; more difficulty focusing, controlling actions, and remaining still or quiet than other people who are the same age) in children 6 years of age and older. Clonidine is in a class of medications called centrally acting alpha-agonist hypotensive agents. Clonidine treats high blood pressure by decreasing your heart rate and relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body. Clonidine extended-release tablets may treat ADHD by affecting the part of the brain that controls attention and impulsivity. High blood pressure is a common condition and when not treated, can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Decisions about medication use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking clonidine affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
According to the MotherToBaby fact sheet, it is not known whether clonidine can make it harder for a person to get pregnant. If you have concerns about clonidine and fertility, it's best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking clonidine increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons, and the fact sheet states it is not known whether clonidine increases the chance of miscarriage. Any concerns about miscarriage risk should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking clonidine increase the risk of birth defects?
Every pregnancy starts with a background 3–5% chance of birth defects. According to the fact sheet, clonidine use in pregnancy is not expected to increase the chance of birth defects above this background risk. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this in the context of your individual situation.
Can taking clonidine during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet notes that it is not known whether clonidine causes problems like preterm delivery or low birth weight, though one report suggested clonidine might slow the pregnant person's heart rate and contribute to lower birth weight — possibly also influenced by the underlying high blood pressure being treated. Babies exposed to clonidine in pregnancy may also have temporary symptoms after birth (sometimes called withdrawal), such as changes in blood pressure, drowsiness, or irritability, which usually resolve within a few weeks. Letting your healthcare team know about clonidine use helps them monitor and care for the baby appropriately.
Can taking clonidine during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
The fact sheet states that it is not known whether clonidine increases the chance for behavior or learning issues in the child. Questions about long-term child development should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking clonidine?
The fact sheet reports that clonidine passes into breastmilk in small amounts and might lower milk supply. There is one report of a newborn with drowsiness, poor muscle tone, breathing pauses, and possible seizure activity that resolved after breastfeeding stopped, while 10 other reports described no side effects in exposed babies; whether the symptoms were due to clonidine is not certain. Discuss your breastfeeding plans with your healthcare provider, and contact the baby's provider if you notice symptoms like unusual sleepiness, poor muscle control, breathing problems, or seizures.
Source: National Library of Medicine
clonidine