What is the brand name for Clonidine?
The brand name for Clonidine is Catapres.
PTCB TOP 200 · #82
Clonidine
Catapres
Clonidine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Catapres. It is an alpha-2 agonist (central antihypertensive) used to treat hypertension, ADHD. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Clonidine ranks #82 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Clonidine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Catapres |
| Drug class | Alpha-2 agonist (central antihypertensive) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | hypertension, ADHD |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Clonidine used for?
Central alpha‑2 agonist used to treat hypertension; certain extended‑release forms are also used for ADHD.
What drug class is Clonidine?
Clonidine is an Alpha-2 agonist (central antihypertensive) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Clonidine
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightDrowsiness
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightSedation
- arrow_rightBradycardia
- arrow_rightLow blood pressure (hypotension)
Major interactions
- arrow_rightBeta‑blockers: additive bradycardia/hypotension; abrupt clonidine withdrawal while on beta‑blocker may worsen rebound hypertension
- arrow_rightTricyclic antidepressants may reduce clonidine’s antihypertensive effect
- arrow_rightOther CNS depressants (alcohol, sedatives) ↑ drowsiness
- arrow_rightStopping suddenly can cause rebound hypertension—taper, especially if on other BP meds
Is Clonidine a controlled substance?
No. Clonidine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Clonidine (PTCE mnemonic)
CATA-pres CALMs the SNS — CLONidine 'CLONEs down' sympathetic tone. Dry mouth, drowsy, hypotension; NEVER stop abruptly → rebound HTN crisis.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Clonidine is a central alpha-2 agonist for blood pressure (and ADHD) — never stop abruptly (rebound hypertension). LASA: clonidine vs clonazepam.
Clonidine FAQ
What is Clonidine used for?
Clonidine is used to treat hypertension, ADHD. Central alpha‑2 agonist used to treat hypertension; certain extended‑release forms are also used for ADHD.
What drug class is Clonidine?
Clonidine is an Alpha-2 agonist (central antihypertensive) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Clonidine a controlled substance?
No. Clonidine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Study guides that cover Clonidine
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
How hard is the PTCE?what the pass rate really means
Failed the PTCB? The comeback planwhat to do if the first attempt failsSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Clonidine the way the PTCE asks it
RxReflex turns the Top 200 drugs into fast flashcard rounds, a guided Learn path, pharmacy math, and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Written and reviewed by the RxReflex Content Team. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).