Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Clonidine as follows:
Central nervous system side-effects
- The bradycardia and hypotension caused by clonidine can lead to episodes of confusion and dizziness, thus increasing the risk for fall and accidents. Starting the medication at a low dose, watching for the response, and gradually changing the dose, to help optimum control of your symptoms, can contribute to controlling/reducing the risk for drowsiness and dizziness due to the medication.
Sexual side-effects
- The bradycardia and hypotension caused by clonidine in individuals belonging to sexually active age group can lead to loss of libido and decreased sexual interest. In men belonging to this age-group, clonidine use can also result in erectile dysfunction and undermine the sexual performance.
