section name header

Pronunciation

KLON-i-deen

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antihypertensives

Pharmacologic Classification: adrenergics (centrally acting)

Indications

BEERS REMS


Unlabeled Use:
  • Opioid withdrawal.

Action

  • Stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors in the CNS, which results in decreased sympathetic outflow, inhibiting cardioacceleration and vasoconstriction centers.
  • Prevents pain signal transmission to the CNS by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the spinal cord.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Decreased BP.
  • Decreased pain.
  • Improved ADHD symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed from the GI tract and skin. Enters systemic circulation following epidural use.

Distribution: Widely distributed; enters CNS.

Metabolism/Excretion: Mostly metabolized by the liver; 40–60% eliminated unchanged in urine.

Half-Life: Neonates: 44–72 hr; Children: 8–12 hr; Adults: Plasma: 12–16 hr ( in renal impairment); CNS: 1.3 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(PO, TD = antihypertensive effect; epidural = analgesia)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO30–60 min1–3 hr8–12 hr
Transdermal2–3 daysunknown7 days
Epiduralunknownunknownunknown



8 hr following removal of patch.

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: bradycardia, heart block, hypotension ( with epidural), palpitations

Derm: rash, sweating

EENT: dry eyes

GI: dry mouth, constipation, nausea, vomiting

GU: fertility, erectile dysfunction

Metab: weight gain

Neuro: drowsiness, depression, dizziness, hallucinations, nervousness, nightmares, paresthesia

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

Hypertension

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Cancer Pain

Opioid Withdrawal

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Catapres, Catapres-TTS, Duraclon, Kapvay, Nexiclon XR, Onyda XR

Pill Image

clonidine-hcl_195-1001.jpg

Code

NDC Code