Highlights
- Clonidine is a prescription medication sometimes used to treat ADHD and anxiety (off-label).
- You can get a clonidine prescription online through a licensed provider after a telehealth evaluation.
- Clonidine may be helpful for certain people, but it is not appropriate for everyone, so an individualized treatment plan is needed.
Brand name: Catapres, Kapvay, Nexiclon XR
Generic name: Clonidine
Drug class: Alpha-2-adrenergic agonist
Dosage forms: Tablet, extended-release tablet, injectable, transdermal patch
FDA-approved uses: Hypertension, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents
Many people struggle with symptoms of ADHD, and not everyone benefits from first-line treatments like stimulant medications. This where non-stimulants like clonidine may be considered.
Through telehealth, people can connect with licensed providers, receive an evaluation, and get an e-prescription, if it is clinically appropriate. This article explains everything you need to know about clonidine, including who it may be right for, how to get clonidine prescribed online, and what to expect from treatment.
What Is Clonidine?
Clonidine is a prescription medication known as an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It works by decreasing the amount of norepinephrine in your body, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate your blood pressure, heart rate, and nervous system. By lowering norepinephrine, clonidine can cause your heart rate to slow and lower your blood pressure.
Clonidine is a generic medication and is also known under several brand names, including Catapres, Kapvay, and Nexiclon XR. It is FDA-approved to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) but may be used off-label for other conditions, for example, clonidine can be prescribed for anxiety treatment. Also,
Clonidine is available in many forms, including tablets, extended-release tablets, transdermal patches, and as an injectable. All forms of clonidine require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Who Clonidine Is (and Isn’t) Right For
Clonidine can be useful for some individuals, but it is not a one-size-fits-all treatment option.
Clonidine may be appropriate for you if:
- You have significant hyperactivity, impulsivity, or sleep issues associated with ADHD
- You experience anxiety, including physical symptoms such as a fast heart rate or agitation
- You cannot take stimulant ADHD medications
- You need an additional medication in combination with another ADHD treatment
- You have both ADHD and anxiety, although clonidine is not the first-line treatment
Clonidine may be considered as an option when stimulants have not worked for someone or have caused certain side effects like sleep problems.
Clonidine may not be appropriate for you if:
- You have low blood pressure or other heart conditions
- You have previously experienced severe side effects when taking alpha-agonists
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are taking
medications that could interact with clonidine[2] , such as CNS depressants, beta-blockers, and some others
Remember to discuss all the medications you are taking with your healthcare provider before starting clonidine.
How to Get a Clonidine Prescription Online: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Sign Up and Book an Appointment
Create an account with MEDvidi and complete the required intake forms to get online help for ADHD. These forms will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications.
On MEDvidi, you can find same-day or next-day appointments and book a time slot that works with your schedule. It may be helpful to have a list of your symptoms and any medications you are taking ready at your appointment.
Step 2: Telehealth Evaluation
When it is time for your video appointment, you will meet with a healthcare provider licensed in your state. During the appointment, they will evaluate your physical and emotional health, review symptoms, discuss health history, and ask about any details that may make certain medications appropriate or inappropriate for you. They may also discuss non-medication or alternative lifestyle treatment options.
Step 3: e-Prescription (If Appropriate)
You can get a clonidine prescription online if your healthcare provider feels that this medication may be helpful for you. In this case, they will send an electronic prescription to your preferred pharmacy. It is important to take clonidine exactly as your provider tells you to and to report any side effects.
Step 4: Follow-Ups and Refills
Schedule ongoing follow-up appointments with your provider. This will allow them to monitor how your body is responding to the medication, adjust the dosage if needed, and provide refills for clonidine online. Attending follow-up appointments will help make sure that the medication is safe and effective for you.
Side Effects and Warnings
Like all prescription medications, clonidine may cause
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Low blood pressure
Serious side effects may require you to call your provider or seek emergency care right away. These include:
- Fainting or severe dizziness
- Very slow heart rate
- Shortness of breath
- Allergic reactions including swelling of your face, mouth, tongue, or throat
Clonidine may not be suitable for certain individuals particularly those that have:
- Heart conditions
- Severe low blood pressure
- The need to take certain medications that can interact with clonidine
These are not comprehensive lists of possible side effects and contraindications. It is also important to not stop clonidine suddenly as abruptly because this can cause rebound high blood pressure. Talk with your healthcare provider before stopping the medication.
Clonidine Dosage for ADHD
Kapvay (clonidine) is usually dosed at 0.1 mg per day at bedtime and can be adjusted up to 0.4 mg per day, split over two doses with one in the morning and one in the evening, if needed. The dose will only be increased if you are not responding to a lower dose.
Costs, Insurance, and Savings
The cost of clonidine may depend on several factors, including the form of clonidine you are taking and whether you are taking generic or brand name medication.
Since Kapvay is FDA-approved for ADHD, let’s look at the cost of this brand name and of extended-release tablets of generic clonidine.
- A monthly supply of 0.1 mg Kapvay tablets costs around $264 to $300.
- A monthly supply of generic 0.1 mg clonidine extended-release tablets costs around $18 to $38 without insurance.
The exact cost of clonidine will depend on your specific pharmacy and your prescription. You can also check with your insurance provider to see if your insurance plan will cover the cost of the medication. You can also look for clonidine coupons from your pharmacy or platforms like GoodRx.
Other Medications Your Provider May Recommend for ADHD
Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your provider may recommend other ADHD medications to treat your symptoms. These can include stimulant medications, such as Adderall or Ritalin, or non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or guanfacine.
Non-medication treatments may also be considered. These can include psychotherapy or support groups.
Why Choose MEDvidi for Your ADHD Care
Clonidine has both pros and cons when prescribed for ADHD and anxiety, so it’s important to see a licensed healthcare provider for individualized support. MEDvidi offers access to licensed providers focusing on evidence-based mental health care. Book your appointment to get a personalized treatment plan in 24 hours.
Initial appointment
$195
(Lower than traditional care)
- An online 30-minute visit
- Diagnosis check
- Identifying treatment goals
- Developing a treatment plan
- Prescribing medications if necessary
Follow-ups
$159
(Optimal and cost-effective)
- Regular 15-minute visits
- Symptoms monitoring
- Prescription refills
- Treatment adjustments
- Working on thinking and behavioral changes
FAQ
Do you need a prescription for clonidine?
Yes. Clonidine is only available with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
