See more The α-2 receptors constitute a family of G-protein–coupled receptors with 3 pharmacological subtypes, α-2A, α-2B, and α-2C
Peripheral presynaptic alpha-2 receptors may also reduce sympathetic tone
Sedation, analgesia, and sympatholysis are produced by stimulating alpha
Indications: Clonidine is used to treat hypertension (HTN) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Centrally acting alpha-2 agonists stimulate alpha-2 adrenoceptors receptors
Alpha-2 receptor agonists—efficacy and safety in PTSD
Alpha agonists that stimulate alpha-2 receptors in the eye are effective at reducing intraocular pressure and glaucoma
However, alpha-2 agonists, such as clonidine, are generally well tolerated and have been associated with fewer side effects
Centrally acting agents stimulate α 2 receptors and/or imadozoline receptors on adrenergic neurons situated within the rostral ventrolateral medulla and, in so doing, sympathetic outflow is reduced
However, more clinical evidence on dexmedetomidine is necessary to confirm its definite role in acute The recent HHS Guide for Clinicians on the Appropriate Dosage Reduction or Discontinuation of Long-Term Opioid Analgesics emphasizes avoidance of abrupt withdrawal but suggests utilizing alpha-2 agonists, including both clonidine or lofexidine, if needed to manage autonomic symptoms of withdrawal
It has also been shown to be clinically effective in managing patients suffering from chronic neck and lumbosacral
Adverse effects: dry mouth, dizziness, drowiness, constipation, sedation, rebound hypertension (if abruptly d/c) Doxazosin (Cardura, Cardura XL) Alpha-2 agonists also have the advantage of being effective in the treatment of ADHD in patients with and without tics
8,9,10,11 Clonidine was granted FDA approval on 3 September 1974
Midodrine (oral form) is used in patients with autonomic insufficiency and symptomatic postural hypotension
See information about popular Alpha-2 Agonists, including the conditions they treat and alternatives available with or without insurance
clonidine + acebutolol if ADHD use, avoid combo; otherwise, monitor HR, BP; D/C acebutolol prior to clonidine taper: combo may incr
Contact dermatitis
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for the treatment of ADHD, although they are probably less efficacious, overall, than stimulants