Clonidine Overdose

Know These Important Warning Signs

A Clonidine overdose is generally similar to any other type of drug overdose. They are caused by ingesting too much of a given medication.

Symptoms may include: high blood pressure followed by low blood pressure, slow heart rate, shallow or slow breathing, low body temperature, drowsiness, decreased reflexes, muscle weakness, irritability, small pupils, irregular heart rhythm, coma, and seizures.

What Is Clonidine?

Clonidine (Catapres) is a medication used to treat high blood pressure. It decreased the heart rate by relaxing the body's blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body. It is characterized as a centrally acting alpha-agonist hypotensive agents.

Keep in mind that there are inherent risks associated with any medication that decreases the heart rate. Therefore, it is important to monitor your heart rate while taking this medication. Any changes in pulse, blood pressure, or respiration should be reported to your prescribing doctor.

If You Suspect An Overdose

If you experience any serious adverse symptoms, induce vomiting and vist the nearest hospital emergency room. Once you are discharged from the hospital, notify your primary physician and prescribing doctor to update them on your condition.

If you have overdosed, you may need to have your stomach pumped and vital signs monitored. Also, the hospital can provide medications that can help to stabilize your blood pressure and aid respiration.

Avoiding An Overdose

One way to avoid a drug overdose is to always take mediations as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip or alter doses. Do not take someone else's medication or share your medications with others.

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol is a depressant that also serves to reduce heart rate and respiration. Similarly, do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking this medication.

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