Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Clonidine as follows:
- Clonidine is partially metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of clonidine can be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, clonidine must be used with caution in individuals with compromised liver function, with periodical monitoring for liver functions and development of any toxic symptoms.
- Inactive metabolites of clonidine along with the unmetabolized portion of the drug are mainly excreted in urine by the kidneys. Individuals with renal disease cannot excrete clonidine and metabolites normally, which allows the medication to stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, clonidine must be used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function, with periodical monitoring for renal functions and development of any toxic symptoms.
