 Management of mild to moderate hypertension; either used alone or in combination with other antihypertensives; not recommended for first-line therapy for hypertension; also used for heroin withdrawal and in smoking cessation therapy; other uses may include prophylaxis of migraines, glaucoma, diabetes-associated diarrhea, Treatment of dysmenorrhea and menopausal "hot flashes.", as well as for management of impulsivity and hyperactivity with ADHD children and adults. How To Take This Medication: Take this medication as directed by the health care provider and do not change the dose without consulting the health care provider. Be careful when using this medication in conjunction with over-the-counter medications, because many of them can elevate the blood pressure; read labels carefully and if any questions arise, talk with the pharmacist or other health care provider. Side Effects: Irregular heartbeat, Discontinue. Seek weak pulse. emergency treatment. Dry mouth, increased thirst, muscle cramps, nausea or vomiting, mood changes, drowsiness. Jaundice; easy bruising or bleeding; sore throat, fever, mouth ulcers; rash or hives; joint pain; flank pain; abdominal pain. Cold fingers and toes, nightmares. Precautions: Use with caution in cerebrovascular disease, coronary insufficiency, renal impairment, sinus node dysfunction; do not abruptly discontinue (rapid increase in blood pressure, and symptoms of sympathetic overactivity, ie, increased heart rate, tremor, agitation, anxiety, insomnia, sweating, palpitations) may occur; if need to discontinue, taper dose gradually over more than 1 week ; adjust dosage in patients with renal dysfunction (especially the elderly). Missed Dose: Take it when you remember, unless your next dose is due soon. Do not double your next dose. Check with your health care provider if you miss a number of doses. Stopping clonidine suddenly can cause very high blood pressure. For more information contact your physician or the pharmacy. As always, consult your health care professional for all health concerns. The information contained above is for educational purposes only. The authors makes no health claims or guarantees for any of the herbs mentioned in these articles. Starshyne
Return to Rainbow Holt's PDR Starshyne updated last 10/4/2001 |