Clonidine Use and Overdose in Adults and Children

Course overview

Clonidine is used for a variety of conditions like hypertension, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and for the treatment of opioid and alcohol use disorders. There are other unapproved uses for clonidine, including the treatment of anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Although clonidine has a proven antihypertensive effect, it is no longer considered a primary drug for hypertension. Withdrawal syndrome and overdose can occur with clonidine use, and there is an increasing concern about the rise in cases of pediatric accidental overdose. The prevention of clonidine withdrawal syndrome and toxicity is important for health clinicians to understand to be able to diagnose and intervene when an adverse event is suspected quickly.