What is the brand name for Clonidine?
The brand name for Clonidine is Catapres.
PTCE 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).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Clonidine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. 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).