Clonidine (Pediatric)
A centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It helps regulate the brain's control of attention and behavior.
Dosage by Body Weight
Pediatric dose for ADHD: 0.05 mg to 0.1 mg at bedtime. Must be tapered off slowly to avoid blood pressure spikes.
- Body Weight
- Over 25 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 mg (half tablet)
- Frequency
- Once nightly
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor for dizziness and low heart rate.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over 25 kg | 0.05 mg (half tablet) | Once nightly | Monitor for dizziness and low heart rate. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used off-label for ADHD (often for sleep or aggression) and sometimes for hypertension.
Generic Name
Clonidine HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Clonidine (Pediatric) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
UNSAFEClonidine (Pediatric): Alcohol can worsen drowsiness, mood changes, impaired judgment, or heart rhythm effects. Avoid alcohol unless your prescriber confirms it is safe.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONClonidine (Pediatric): Use in pregnancy only when prescribed after weighing mental health benefits and medicine-specific risks.
Breast Feeding
CAUTIONClonidine (Pediatric): May pass into breast milk. Use while breastfeeding only with specialist guidance and infant monitoring.
Driving
CAUTIONClonidine (Pediatric): May cause sleepiness, dizziness, slowed reaction time, or concentration changes. Avoid driving if affected.
Liver
CAUTIONClonidine (Pediatric): Use caution in liver disease because several psychiatric or sedating medicines are processed by the liver.
Kidney
CAUTIONClonidine (Pediatric): Kidney disease may require monitoring or dose adjustment for some medicines in this group.