CLONIDINE
(Catapres, Dixarit)Standard Prescription
clonidine__mcg PO Q__H (__mcg/kg/24hr)
Dosages
ADHD/Disruptive Behaviour:
Initial dose:
Target dose:
up to 2.5 micrograms/kg/dose TID to QID
Adjunct to analgesia:
1-4 micrograms/kg/dose PO Q4-6H
Titrate upwards if needed and as tolerated to a maximum of 10 micrograms/kg/24 hr.
Initial dose:
1 micrograms/kg/dose TID to QID
Target dose:
up to 2.5 micrograms/kg/dose TID to QID
Usual maximum dose:
10 micrograms/kg/24 hr;
pts > 45 kg: 400 micrograms/24 hr
Adjunct to analgesia:
1-4 micrograms/kg/dose PO Q4-6H
Titrate upwards if needed and as tolerated to a maximum of 10 micrograms/kg/24 hr.
Mechanism of Action
Alpha-adrenergic agonist stimulating central (brain stem) alpha receptors.
Forms Supplied
tablet: 0.025 mg, 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg
suspension (BCCH): 0.01 mg/mL
suspension (BCCH): 0.01 mg/mL
Comments
Gradually titrate up to target dosage over 1-2 weeks to prevent somnolence, dizziness, hypotension and syncope.
To discontinue after prolonged use (>7 days on clonidine and/or dexmedetomidine), gradually decrease dose o(reduce dose by 25% every 3-7 days) to avoid withdrawal syndrome which may include rebound hypertension.
Withhold or reduce dose if excessive hypotension or bradycardia.
Dose modification may be required in renal impairment.
High potential for 10-fold dosing errors.
Make dosage calculations/conversions carefully (ensure proper units used):
25 micrograms equals 0.025 mg
100 micrograms equals 0.1 mg
To discontinue after prolonged use (>7 days on clonidine and/or dexmedetomidine), gradually decrease dose o(reduce dose by 25% every 3-7 days) to avoid withdrawal syndrome which may include rebound hypertension.
Withhold or reduce dose if excessive hypotension or bradycardia.
Dose modification may be required in renal impairment.
High potential for 10-fold dosing errors.
Make dosage calculations/conversions carefully (ensure proper units used):
25 micrograms equals 0.025 mg
100 micrograms equals 0.1 mg
References
32, 44, 83
Last Edited
2022-06-16 01:32:19