Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Clonidine lowers blood pressure and is also used for some other conditions. It belongs to the Blood-pressure medicine (extra) group. These lower blood pressure by additional mechanisms, often used when first-line drugs are not enough.
High blood pressure (add-on or specific situations)
High blood pressure in pregnancy (methyldopa)
Heart failure (sacubitril-valsartan)
Common brand names
India: Arkamin, Catapres
Worldwide: Catapres, Kapvay
Common side effects
Dizziness or drowsiness
Dry mouth (clonidine)
Ankle swelling or flushing (some)
Before taking it — precautions
Do not stop clonidine suddenly (rebound BP surge)
Rise slowly to avoid fainting
Monitoring as advised
When to see a doctor urgently
Severe rebound high BP if clonidine is stopped abruptly
Fainting or very low BP
Facial/throat swelling (sacubitril-valsartan)
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of clonidine depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Which BP medicine is safe in pregnancy?
Methyldopa, labetalol and nifedipine are commonly used in pregnancy. ACE inhibitors and ARBs are avoided.
What is sacubitril-valsartan?
It is a combination medicine that improves outcomes in heart failure, used under specialist guidance.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.