What is Clonidine
Clonidine, also known as catapres, comes as a tablet, a patch or an injectable, and is FDA-approved for treating high blood pressure. It is also used in treatment for alcohol and opioid (heroin, morphine, codeine, Vicodin, Percocet, Oxycontin) addiction to alleviate some withdrawal symptoms. Psychiatric side effects are rare but include depression, visual and auditory hallucinations, vivid dreams and drowsiness. Clonidine may itself be abused as it can mimic the effect of opiates, or when taken along with opiates, intensify their effects. The most common side effects are dry mouth, dizziness and drowsiness.
Clonidine lowers blood pressure by decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in your blood. This allows your blood vessels to relax and your heart to beat more slowly and easily. Clonidine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It is sometimes used together with other blood pressure medications. Clonidine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
