Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that acts on the central nervous system to lower blood pressure and reduce the release of certain stress-related neurotransmitters.(Source) It is available in immediate‑release tablets, extended‑release tablets, and transdermal patches, and is sold under several brand names, including Catapres (for blood pressure) and Kapvay (for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD). (Source)

The medication is best known for its cardiovascular effects and is frequently prescribed to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults.(Source) In some cases, clonidine may also be used off‑label to help manage symptoms of anxiety, sleep disturbance, or agitation, particularly when these are related to withdrawal from substances.

Beyond blood pressure control, clonidine has several other evidence‑based and off‑label uses:

• ADHD: Extended‑release clonidine is FDA‑approved as an adjunctive or standalone treatment for ADHD in children and adolescents and is sometimes used in adults.(Source)
• Substance withdrawal: Clonidine is commonly used off‑label to help reduce certain physical symptoms of opioid and alcohol withdrawal, such as sweating, agitation, anxiety, muscle aches, and runny nose.(Source)
• Nicotine withdrawal and smoking cessation: Some clinicians use clonidine off‑label to help reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms in people trying to quit smoking.(Source)
• Menopausal symptoms: Clonidine may be prescribed off‑label to help reduce hot flashes and related vasomotor symptoms in some women.(Source)
• Pain management: In specific settings, clonidine can be administered via epidural or other routes as an adjunct to pain control, including in some cancer pain protocols.(Source)
• Tourette syndrome and tics: Clonidine is sometimes used to help reduce tics and behavioral symptoms in people with Tourette syndrome or related conditions.(Source)

Because clonidine affects the central nervous system and blood pressure, it should only be started, adjusted, or stopped under medical supervision. Stopping clonidine suddenly can cause a rapid rise in blood pressure (rebound hypertension), which can be dangerous.(Source)