It is important that your family doctor check your progress at regular appointments to make sure that this drug is help you.
Check with your family doctor before you stop using this drug . Your family doctor may want you to reduce gradually the amount you are using before stopping completely.
Make sure that you have enough clonidine on hand to last through weekends, holidays, or vacations . You must not miss any doses. You may want to ask your family doctor for another written prescription for clonidine to carry in your wallet or purse. You can then have it filled if you run out of drug when you are away from home.
For diseaseds taking this drug for high blood pressure :
Clonidine will add to the effects of alcohol and other central nervous system - CNS depressants - medication that slow down the nervous system, possibly causing drowsiness. Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or drug for hay fever, other allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping drug; prescription pain drug or narcotics; barbiturates; drug for seizures; muscle relaxants; or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics Check with your family doctor before taking any of the above while you are using this drug .
Clonidine may cause some people to become drowsy or less alert than they are normally. This is more likely to happen when you begin to take it or when you increase the amount of drug you are taking Make sure you know how you react to this drug before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert .
Before having any kind of surgery - including dental surgery or emergency treat, tell the family doctor or dentist in charge that you are using this drug .
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur after you take this drug, especially when you get up from a lying or sitting position. Getting up slowly may help, but if the problem continues or gets worse, check with your family doctor.
The dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting is also more likely to occur if you drink alcohol, stand for long periods of time, exercise, or if the weather is hot. While you are taking clonidine, be careful to limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Always use extra care during exercise or hot weather or if you must stand for a long time.
Clonidine may cause dryness of the mouth. For temporary relief, use sugarless candy or gum, melt bits of ice in your mouth, or use a saliva substitute. However, if your mouth continues to feel dry for more than 2 weeks, check with your family doctor or dentist. Continuing dryness of the mouth may increase the risk of dental disease, including tooth decay, gum disease and fungus infections.