Highlights
- Clonidine, the generic name for Catapres, is used to treat high blood pressure, panic disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anxiety (off-label).
- Clonidine reduces the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter associated with stress and anxiety.
- Clonidine is sometimes prescribed off-label to help with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other anxiety disorders.
- Potential side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness. Gradual dosage adjustments can help mitigate these effects. Severe side effects, though rare, should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
- Clonidine should not be stopped abruptly due to the risk of rebound hypertension and increased anxiety symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to the medication regimen.
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions and often cause both emotional and physical symptoms, including constant worrying, rapid heart rate, and sweating. Usually, anxiety is initially treated with psychotherapy and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) medications, but some people cannot take these medications or find them not providing relief.
Read on to know more about clonidine, its uses, side effects, drug interactions, and other important aspects.
What Is Clonidine?
Clonidine is a prescription medication known as an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It works by acting on receptors in the brain to reduce the release of norepinephrine and help to regulate the nervous system. It has been available as several brand names, including Catapres, Kapvay, and Nexiclon XR, but many brands have been discontinued.
Clonidine is FDA-approved for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and Tourette’s syndrome. This means that it has been studied in clinical trials and proven to be effective and safe for treating these conditions.
When clonidine is prescribed for anxiety, it is prescribed off-label. Off-label means the use of the medication for a certain condition has not been approved by the FDA, and is prescribed based on the provider’s clinical judgement.
Healthcare providers may consider prescribing clonidine when someone’s anxiety does not respond to other treatments, or when patients cannot take first-line medications such as SSRIs and SNRIs.
How Clonidine Works for Anxiety
How Clonidine Affects the Nervous System
Clonidine is an
Does Clonidine Help With Anxiety and Panic Attacks?
Anxiety and panic attacks can cause emotional and physical symptoms, including increased heart rate, shaking, sweating, and feeling agitated. Clonidine works by calming your nervous system, which
Clonidine is not FDA-approved to treat anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD-related hyperarousal, and situational or performance anxiety. This means that there is limited clinical evidence on its safety and efficacy for these conditions. But it is commonly prescribed off-label to treat anxiety and panic attacks.
Clonidine is not a first-line treatment for anxiety or panic attacks because there are other medications, SSRIs and SNRIs, that have been shown to be safe and effective for treating these conditions.
Clonidine Dose for Anxiety (Forms and Dosing)
When clonidine is used for anxiety, the dosage will be tailored to the individual and may be adjusted based on symptoms and response to the medication. Usually, clonidine is given twice daily with doses starting at 0.1 mg up to a maximum of 2.4 mg daily. Talk with your healthcare provider about your dose as it will vary for each person.
Clonidine comes in many different forms, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and transdermal patches. Tablet strengths include 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg, and 0.3 mg but available strengths can vary based on the specific form of clonidine. Usually, immediate-release tablets will be taken twice daily while extended-release tablets will be taken once daily. Transdermal patches may be used to provide medication over several days.
If you miss a clonidine dose, take it as soon as possible. But if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular medication schedule. Do not increase the dose because you missed the previous one. If you miss more than one dose of your medication, consult your physician as soon as possible.
How to Take Clonidine for Anxiety
Clonidine tablets are taken by mouth, with or without food. Depending on the specific formulation, it may be taken once a day or twice daily. It’s important to take clonidine regularly and as prescribed because missing doses can reduce its efficacy and increase your risk of side effects. Don’t stop taking it without consulting your physician because otherwise, you may experience adverse reactions.
It’s important to attend all appointments with your healthcare provider. They will monitor your response to the medication and your side effects to ensure the chosen treatment is safe for you. It should also be said that clonidine is not a replacement for psychotherapy and is often found to be the most effective when it is combined with therapy sessions.
How Fast Does Clonidine Work and How Long Does It Last?
Clonidine starts working within 30 to 60 minutes, with the highest concentration of medication in your body (peak effects) occurring within 1 to 3 hours. Depending on the formulation, the amount of time clonidine takes to start working or peak may be different.
Many factors can affect someone’s response to clonidine. These can include the dose of medication, the formulation, the individual’s specific metabolism, and any other conditions they have.
Side Effects, Risks, and Safety Warnings
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of clonidine include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Headache
Serious Side Effects and When to Seek Help
Severe
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Changed or slow heart rate
- Difficulty breathing or talking
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
Withdrawal, Overdose, and Misuse Risks
Always take clonidine exactly as prescribed and do not stop it abruptly even when you start seeing symptom improvement. Stopping it abruptly without consulting your physician can cause symptoms to return or worsen. There is also a possibility of experiencing adverse reactions that can range from increased nervousness and agitation to severe headaches or being unable to control your movements. If you would like to stop taking clonidine, your healthcare provider can help you create a plan to do it gradually and safely.
Taking clonidine as it is prescribed will ensure you do not overdose on the medication. Symptoms of overdose can include confusion, extreme drowsiness, or loss of consciousness.
In case of overdose, immediately call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If you or another individual taking clonidine has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or has collapsed, please call 911.
Talk to a healthcare provider today to discuss your treatment plan and obtain a prescription for anxiety medication online if deemed necessary.
Drug Interactions & Special Precautions
Always be careful when using clonidine alongside other medications, as their interactions might slow down your breathing or make you feel sleepy. These medications include:
- Sleep medicines
- Antidepressants
- Beta-blockers
- Neuroleptics
- Alcohol, barbiturates, or sedating medications
Caution may also be required in individuals with certain conditions such as:
- Heart disease
- Low blood pressure
- Depression
- Kidney disease
- Pregnancy
Always talk to your healthcare provider about your medical history before taking clonidine for anxiety to avoid unpleasant effects.
Is Clonidine Good for Anxiety in Adults?
Clonidine may be a good treatment for anxiety in adults since it can calm your nervous system and decrease symptoms of anxiety. It is usually used alongside psychotherapy. Talk with your healthcare provider about your entire health history and all prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbs you take to make sure clonidine is safe for you.
Alternatives to Clonidine for Anxiety
Clonidine is usually not used as a first-line treatment for anxiety. Alternative medication options include SSRIs, SNRIs, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, and hydroxyzine. Non-medication treatment options may also be effective for anxiety either on their own or combined with clonidine. These include psychotherapy, meditation or mindfulness techniques, and lifestyle changes.
Conclusion: Consult on Using Clonidine for Anxiety Treatment
Clonidine will not cure anxiety, but it may be useful to decrease the symptoms. Join MEDvidi to get online help from licensed healthcare providers. Our medical professionals are well trained and qualified in treating mental health disorders, such as anxiety, panic disorders, and others.
It can be time-consuming and difficult for some patients to go to a medical facility. MEDvidi provides convenient and cost-effective online anxiety treatment from the comfort of your own home, including online prescription for clonidine or another anxiety medication if deemed appropriate.
FAQ
Is clonidine like Xanax?
Clonidine and Xanax are different medications. Clonidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, treats hypertension, ADHD, pain, and withdrawal symptoms. It can be prescribed off-label for anxiety. Xanax, a benzodiazepine, is primarily prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders.
Clonidine reduces heart rate and blood pressure by stimulating alpha-2 receptors, while Xanax enhances GABA’s calming effect on the nervous system. Clonidine has a lower abuse potential and common side effects like dry mouth and drowsiness, whereas Xanax has a higher risk of dependence and causes drowsiness and dizziness. Consult a healthcare provider for advice specific to your condition.
Does clonidine relax you?
Clonidine can produce a calming effect, often leading to feelings of relaxation and sedation. Commonly, it causes drowsiness or lightheadedness, so it’s typically taken at night to minimize daytime sleepiness. The overall effect varies based on the individual and their condition, but сlonidine generally helps reduce anxiety and hyperactivity by calming the nervous system.
Does clonidine stabilize mood?
Clonidine is not classified as a mood stabilizer. While it can have calming effects and reduce symptoms of anxiety and hyperactivity, it is not typically prescribed to stabilize mood in conditions like bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers include medications like lithium, valproate, or certain antipsychotics. Always consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options for mood disorders.
Does clonidine help with depression?
It’s unlikely that clonidine will help with depression. It is not an antidepressant, and in clinical trials, it worsened depressive symptoms in some people
How fast does clonidine work for panic attacks?
Clonidine can begin to take effect within 30 to 60 minutes for managing panic attacks but this time span may vary depending on prescription guidelines and individual health factors. Do not exceed the prescribed dose and always consult a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.
Can you take clonidine as needed for anxiety?
Sometimes, clonidine may be used as needed for anxiety if it is prescribed and suggested by your healthcare provider. But it may be necessary to take your doses regularly to ensure your anxiety symptoms are controlled.
What is the maximum daily dose of clonidine for anxiety?
It’s suggested that
