What is the medicinal use of clonidine?
What is the medicinal use of clonidine?
This medication is used alone or with other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Clonidine belongs to a class of drugs (central alpha agonists) that act in the brain to lower blood pressure.
How is clonidine an adrenergic agonist?
Clonidine is a selective α2-adrenergic agonist. Clonidine has expressed hypotensive action, which is associated with a reduction of general peripheral vascular resistance, reduced frequency of cardiac beats, and a reduction of cardiac output.
How does clonidine work as a sedative?
It has been postulated that clonidine exerts its sedative effects via stimulation of the pre-synaptic alpha-2 adrenoceptors of the locus coeruleus, decreasing norepinephrine release [22]. Clonidine also has action on the cholinergic, purinergic, and serotonergic pathways, resulting in analgesia [22].
How does clonidine work in brain?
Clonidine works by affecting the activity of the brain chemical (neurotransmitter) called norepinephrine. Norepinephrine normally influences blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety in the body, but it also affects attention and arousal. This medication stabilizes certain areas of the brain, making them “less excited”.
What is clonidine used for and side effects?
Clonidine is available as both a generic and brand-name drug. Brand name(s): Kapvay. Clonidine extended-release tablets are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Common side effects include upper respiratory tract infection, feeling irritable, trouble sleeping, and nightmares.
What is the duration of action of clonidine?
The peak action occurs in 10 minutes and lasts for 3-7 hours after single intravenous dose. On oral administration, it reaches a peak plasma level within 60-90 minutes.
What is the chemical structure of clonidine?
Clonidine hydrochloride
| PubChem CID | 20179 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Find Similar Structures |
| Chemical Safety | Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary (LCSS) Datasheet |
| Molecular Formula | C9H10Cl3N3 |
| Synonyms | CLONIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE 4205-91-8 Clonidine HCl 2-(2,6-Dichloroanilino)-2-imidazoline hydrochloride Kapvay More… |
Is clonidine a stimulant?
Clonidine, which is part of the class of drugs known as centrally acting alpha-agonist hypotensive agents, is considered a non-stimulant treatment for ADHD. Stimulants, also called psychostimulants, are generally the first choice of medications used to treat ADHD.
Is clonidine a beta blocker?
No, clonidine isn’t a beta-blocker. Clonidine is a type of drug called a centrally acting alpha agonist. Both types of drugs can be used to lower blood pressure, but they work in slightly different ways. Clonidine and beta-blockers both slow your heart rate and allow your blood vessels to relax and widen.
