What are the contraindications to clonidine administration?

  • No definitive contraindications
  • Extreme caution should be exercised in patients with:
    • Heart block
    • Bradycardia
    • Hypotension or hypovolaemia
    • Severe ventricular dysfunction
    • Peripheral vascular disease
    • Concomitant use of:
      • Beta-blockers (bradycardia)
      • Tricyclic antidepressants (counteract effect)
      • Digoxin (bradycardia)
      • Haloperidol (prolongation of QT interval)
  • Sudden withdrawal should be avoided due to the risk of rebound hypertension