What is clonidine?
Clonidine is a medication used to treat behavioral disorders in dogs, particularly anxiety- or phobia-related (e.g., separation anxiety, noise phobias, veterinary visits, hospitalization, and travel). It is frequently used as supplemental therapy in pets that do not respond to conventional therapies.
Its use in dogs to treat behavioral disorders is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is clonidine given?
- Clonidine is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid.
- It may be given with food or on an empty stomach. If your pet vomits or acts sick after receiving the medication on an empty stomach, try giving the next dose with food or a small treat.
- Dogs should rest quietly before and after administration for better effect.
This medication will take effect within 1 to 2 hours when used for short-term stress relief. For long-term treatment, it can take a few weeks before full effects are observed. Dogs that are already nervous or agitated may show no effect with clonidine administration.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
Clonidine may cause the following side effects:
- Sedation
- Lethargy
- Agitation/excitation
- Aggression
- Constipation
Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
DO NOT USE clonidine in
- Dogs with known hypersensitivity to the medication
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Dogs with heart disease
- Dogs that are pregnant or nursing (clonidine transfers to the fetus and milk, so your veterinarian will carefully consider the risks versus the benefits of using this medication in these pets)
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Several medications should be used with caution when given with clonidine, including:
- Antihypertensive drugs, such as amlodipine, enalapril (Enacard®), benazepril (Fortekor®), and telmisartan (Semintra®)
- Barbiturates
- Diltiazem
- Glucocorticoids
- Opioids
- Prazosin
- Propranolol
- Tricyclic antidepressants
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, and heart rhythm is recommended with chronic use.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store clonidine?
- Store this medication in the prescribed container at room temperature, protected from light.
- Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
