Side Effects of clonidine: A Synthesis of Findings from 16 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Clonidine is an α2-adrenergic agonist used to treat conditions such as hypertension, migraine, and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Clonidine works by acting on specific receptors in the brain, which in turn suppresses the sympathetic nervous system. This action results in lowered blood pressure, slower heart rate, and sedation. However, due to its mechanism of action, clonidine can cause several side effects. These side effects may include fatigue, drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, low blood pressure, dizziness, and headaches. Clonidine's side effects vary from person to person. The severity of side effects can also vary depending on the dose and method of administration of clonidine.

Reasons for Side Effects

Clonidine's side effects are caused by its mechanism of action. Clonidine works by acting on specific receptors in the brain, which in turn suppresses the sympathetic nervous system. This action results in lowered blood pressure, slower heart rate, and sedation. However, the sympathetic nervous system regulates various bodily functions such as gastrointestinal motility and secretion, pupil control, and sweating. Therefore, clonidine can also affect these functions and cause side effects.

Common Side Effects

Fatigue, Drowsiness

Clonidine can cause fatigue and drowsiness because it acts on the central nervous system to produce a sedative effect. This occurs because clonidine suppresses the sympathetic nervous system and inhibits brain activity. 15 、 2 、 10 、 11

Dry Mouth

Clonidine can cause dry mouth because it suppresses saliva secretion. This occurs because clonidine suppresses the sympathetic nervous system and inhibits the activity of the salivary glands. 15 、

Constipation

Clonidine can cause constipation because it suppresses intestinal peristalsis. This occurs because clonidine suppresses the sympathetic nervous system and inhibits intestinal activity.

Low Blood Pressure

Clonidine can cause low blood pressure because it has a blood pressure-lowering effect. This occurs because clonidine suppresses the sympathetic nervous system and dilates blood vessels. 15 、 2 、 10 、 6 、 12

Dizziness

Clonidine can cause dizziness because it can cause low blood pressure. This occurs because clonidine suppresses the sympathetic nervous system and reduces blood flow to the brain. 15 、 10

Headache

Clonidine can cause headaches because it has a vasoconstrictive effect. This occurs because clonidine suppresses the sympathetic nervous system and inhibits vascular activity. 15

Other Side Effects

Clonidine can cause other side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, rash, itching, mouth sores, and indigestion.

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Fatigue, Drowsiness

Fatigue and drowsiness from clonidine usually subside within a few days of starting medication. However, if these symptoms persist, consult your doctor. Be particularly careful when performing activities that require concentration, such as driving or operating machinery. 15

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can be alleviated by drinking plenty of water. Staying hydrated is crucial. 15

Constipation

Constipation can be alleviated by eating a diet rich in fiber and drinking plenty of fluids. If this does not improve, consult your doctor.

Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure can cause dizziness when getting up. Therefore, when getting up, get up slowly, stand on the floor for a while, and then start walking. 15

Dizziness

Dizziness can be alleviated by getting up slowly. You should also consult your doctor and get prescribed medication for dizziness if necessary.

Headache

Headaches can be alleviated by taking over-the-counter pain relievers. If this does not improve, consult your doctor.

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities of Studies

Multiple studies have shown that clonidine is effective in treating conditions such as hypertension, migraine, and opioid withdrawal symptoms. These studies also showed that clonidine can cause several side effects. These side effects may include fatigue, drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, low blood pressure, dizziness, and headaches. These side effects vary from person to person. The severity of side effects can also vary depending on the dose and method of administration of clonidine.

Differences in Studies

The effects and side effects of clonidine can vary depending on the study. This is because the design, subjects, dosage, and method of administration of the study can vary. For example, one study showed that clonidine caused low blood pressure, while another study did not find such results. Additionally, one study showed that clonidine caused fatigue and drowsiness, while another study did not find these side effects.

Precautions Regarding Real-World Applications

Clonidine should be taken as directed by your doctor. Do not take it or stop taking it without consulting your doctor. Clonidine may interact with other medications. Therefore, if you are taking other medications, consult your doctor. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking clonidine. If you experience fatigue, drowsiness, or dizziness while taking clonidine, be extra careful when performing activities that require concentration, such as driving or operating machinery. 15

Limitations of Current Research

There is not enough research on the effects and side effects of clonidine. Future research is expected to shed more light on the effects and side effects of clonidine.

Future Research Directions

To further investigate the effects and side effects of clonidine, large-scale clinical trials are needed. These clinical trials should consider various patterns of clonidine dosage and administration methods, and evaluate its effects and side effects. Research on how to reduce the side effects of clonidine should also be conducted.

Conclusion

Clonidine is an effective medication for treating conditions such as hypertension, migraine, and opioid withdrawal symptoms, but it can cause several side effects. When taking clonidine, follow your doctor's instructions and be aware of possible side effects. 15

Literature analysis of 16 papers
Positive Content
15
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
0
Article Type
7
1
0
1
16
1.

Well-being, psychosocial factors, and side-effects among heroin-dependent inpatients after detoxification using buprenorphine versus clonidine.

Author: PonizovskyAlexander M, GrinshpoonAlexander, MargolisAnatoly, CohenRami, RoscaPaula

Higher self-efficacy
Higher social support
Higher well-being
Less side effects

Buprenorphine was found to be preferable for inpatient detoxification from heroin dependence, resulting in fewer side effects and improved well-being, self-efficacy, and social support compared to clonidine treatment.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

2.

Antihyperalgesic and side effects of intrathecal clonidine and tizanidine in a rat model of neuropathic pain.

Author: KawamataTomoyuki, OmoteKeiichi, YamamotoHiroki, ToriyabeMasaki, WadaKohsuke, NamikiAkiyoshi

Antihyperalgesic effect
Bradycardia
Hypotension

This study evaluated the antihyperalgesic effects and side effects of intrathecal clonidine and tizanidine in a rat model of neuropathic pain.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

3.

Side-effects of postoperative epidural analgesia in children: a randomized study comparing morphine and clonidine.

Author: CucchiaroG, DagherC, BaujardC, DuboussetA M, BenhamouD

Postoperative analgesia
Side effects

This randomized, double-blind trial compared the incidence of side-effects after epidural infusion of clonidine or morphine, in association with ropivacaine in children.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

4.

The effect of clonidine on gastrointestinal side effects associated with ultra-rapid opioid detoxification.

Author: MaHong, TangJun, WhitePaul F, WenderRonald H, LeveroneThomas, QuonRayond, PearceScott, ChiaoFranklin, EriceSusan

Antidiarrheal activity

This study suggests that clonidine, an alpha(2)-adrenergic agonist, possesses dose-related antidiarrheal activity.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

5.

Baclofen versus clonidine in the treatment of opiates withdrawal, side-effects aspect: a double-blind randomized controlled trial.

Author: Ahmadi-AbhariS A, AkhondzadehS, AssadiS M, ShabestariO L, FarzanehganZ M, KamlipourA

Opiate withdrawal symptom management
Side effects

Baclofen was found to be at least as effective as clonidine in managing physical symptoms of opiate withdrawal syndromes and superior to clonidine in managing mental symptoms.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

6.

Effects of oral clonidine premedication on side effects of intravenous ketamine anesthesia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

Author: HandaF, TanakaM, NishikawaT, ToyookaH

Less nightmare
Reduced heart rate
Reduced salivation

Oral clonidine premedication effectively attenuated the cardiostimulatory effects of ketamine anesthesia. Clonidine 5 micrograms/kg was associated with a reduced incidence of nightmares and salivation.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

7.

Epidural fentanyl, adrenaline and clonidine as adjuvants to local anaesthetics for surgical analgesia: meta-analyses of analgesia and side-effects.

Author: CuratoloM, Petersen-FelixS, ScaramozzinoP, ZbindenA M

Mild side effects
Reduced pain
Safe
Pruritus
Sedation

This meta-analysis of 18 trials found that adding fentanyl to local anaesthetics for intraoperative epidural analgesia is safe and advantageous, with a significant reduction in pain during surgery and mild side-effects. The analysis suggests that more research is needed on the role of adrenaline and clonidine as epidural adjuvants for surgical analgesia.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

8.

Clonidine potentiates the neuropathic pain-relieving action of MK-801 while preventing its neurotoxic and hyperactivity side effects.

Author: Jevtovic-TodorovicV, WozniakD F, PowellS, NardiA, OlneyJ W

Hyperactivity reduction
Neuropathic pain relief
Behavioral disturbances
Neurotoxicity

Clonidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, potentiated the neuropathic pain-relieving action of MK-801, an NMDA antagonist, while protecting against neurotoxicity and hyperactivity side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

9.

Apraclonidine and clonidine: a comparison of efficacy and side effects in normal and ocular hypertensive volunteers.

Author: YükselN, GülerC, CaglarY, ElibolO

Reduces IOP
Safer
Conjunctival blanching
Eyelid retraction
Mydriasis

Apraclonidine was more effective and safer than clonidine in reducing intraocular pressure in normal and ocular hypertensive volunteers. Apraclonidine did not cause any significant cardiovascular side effects, unlike clonidine.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

10.

[Side-effects of the clonidine test in 20 children with short stature].

Author: Durá TraveT, Moya BenaventM, Buades EspláA

growth hormone response
drowsiness
hypotension

A single oral dose of clonidine was effective in stimulating growth hormone release in children and adolescents with short stature. However, the drug caused drowsiness and a decrease in systolic blood pressure.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : Spanish

11.

Association of pain relief with drug side effects in postherpetic neuralgia: a single-dose study of clonidine, codeine, ibuprofen, and placebo.

Author: MaxM B, SchaferS C, CulnaneM, DubnerR, GracelyR H

Pain relief
Dizziness
Sedation

Clonidine was more effective than codeine, ibuprofen, or placebo for treating postherpetic neuralgia, with 74% of patients experiencing pain relief. Clonidine also had the highest incidence of side effects (74%), but pain relief was greater during trials in which side effects were present.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

12.

The hypotensive activity and side effects of methyldopa, clonidine, and guanfacine.

Author: van ZwietenP A, ThoolenM J, TimmermansP B

Blood pressure reduction
Heart rate reduction
Sedation

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

13.

Opiate withdrawal using lofexidine, a clonidine analogue with fewer side effects.

Author: WashtonA M, ResnickR B, GeyerG

Reduced opiate withdrawal
Safer than clonidine

Lofexidine was effective in reducing opiate withdrawal symptoms without the sedative and hypotensive effects seen with clonidine.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

14.

Clonidine twice daily in hypertension. Effects of two dosage regimens on blood pressure, side-effects and plasma clonidine concentrations.

Author: LiljaM, HuikuriH, JounelaA J, JuustilaH J, PaalzowG

Satisfactory blood pressure reduction
Blood pressure fluctuations

Twice-daily dosing of clonidine was effective in reducing blood pressure, but blood pressure fluctuated more when the evening dose was taken at 10 p.m.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

15.

Pharmacokinetics and side-effects of clonidine.

Author: KeränenA, NykänenS, TaskinenJ

Effective for hypertension
Sedation
Side effects

Clonidine, a medication used for hypertension, was found to have a long half-life and to cause sedation and dryness of the mouth.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

16.

Hypotensive action and side effects of clonidine-chlorthalidone and methyldopa-chlorthalidone in treatment of hypertension.

Author: AmeryA, VerstraeteM, BossaertH, VerstrekenG

Reduce diastolic blood pressure
Side effects

Clonidine-chlorthalidone combination lowered diastolic blood pressure more effectively than methyldopa-chlorthalidone in a cross-over study, but also caused more side effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

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