ADHD Clonidine

ADHD Clonidine

Clonidine is another drug that has been FDA-approved to treat high blood pressure that is being used to treat those with ADHD. Clonidine has been effective in treating the hyperactive symptoms of ADHD and is often prescribed in addition to ritalin. This combination, however, can be dangerous and even life-threatening. There have been four sudden deaths due to cardiac complications reported in children taking clonidine and methylphenidate (ritalin) together (Swanson et al. 1995; Cantwell et al. 1997; Fenichel 1995).

These deaths led to the recommendation of cardiac monitoring with an EKG when clonidine is used. Therefore, extreme caution should be taken be patient and doctor when such combinations of medications are prescribed.

Clonidine (Catapres) is another class of medication sometimes used in the treatment of ADHD. Clonidine acts on the central nervous system and is especially helpful if the symptoms are primarily hyperactivity, aggression, or if tics are present. It is available as a pill or as a patch.