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Clonidine ER Coupon - Clonidine ER 0.1mg tablet

clonidine ER

Generic Kapvay
Used for Hypertension, ADHD
Used for Hypertension, ADHD

Extended-release clonidine (Kapvay) is an alpha-2 agonist. It's a non-stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. Clonidine ER (Kapvay) is taken by mouth, typically twice per day. Some of the more common side effects include sleepiness and headache. This medication rarely causes insomnia (trouble sleeping), and isn't known to cause weight gain. Brand name Kapvay has been discontinued; clonidine ER (Kapvay) is only available as a generic medication.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on November 7, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Clonidine ER (Kapvay)?

What is Clonidine ER (Kapvay) used for?

How Clonidine ER (Kapvay) works

Clonidine ER (Kapvay) is an alpha-2 agonist. It's not exactly clear how clonidine ER (Kapvay) treats ADHD. But it's thought to work by binding (attaching) to alpha-2 receptors in the part of the brain that's involved in attention and focus.

Are you looking for information on clonidine (Catapres) for high blood pressure instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsKapvay (brand name no longer available)
Drug ClassAlpha-2 adrenergic agonist
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Clonidine ER (Kapvay)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Sleepiness (up to 38%)
  • Headache (up to 20%)
  • Fatigue (up to 16%)
  • Upper stomach pain (up to 15%)

Other Side Effects

  • Irritable
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Nightmare
  • Mood problems
  • Nausea
  • Low appetite

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe allergic reaction: trouble breathing; rash; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Dangerously low blood pressure: lightheadedness, dizziness, feeling faint, tiredness, confusion

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Mental depression

swelling of the feet and lower legs

Rare

Anxiety

blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, or flaking of the skin

chest pain or discomfort

confusion as to time, place, or person

decreased urine output

dilated neck veins

drowsiness

dry mouth

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

holding false beliefs that cannot be changed by fact

hyperventilation

irregular breathing

irritability

itching, scaling, severe redness, soreness, or swelling of the skin

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

mental depression

paleness or cold feeling in the fingertips and toes

pounding, slow heartbeat

problems in urination or increase in the amount of urine

raised red swellings on the skin, lips, tongue, or in the throat

restlessness

seeing or hearing things that are not there

shaking

shortness of breath

skin rash

swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs

tightness in the chest

tingling or pain in the fingers or toes when exposed to cold

trouble with sleeping

troubled breathing

unusual excitement, nervousness, or restlessness

unusual tiredness or weakness

vivid dreams or nightmares

weight gain

wheezing

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Dizziness (extreme) or faintness

feeling cold

pinpoint pupils of the eyes

unusual tiredness or weakness (extreme)

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Constipation

Less common

Darkening of the skin

decreased sexual ability

dry, itching, or burning eyes

loss of appetite

nausea or vomiting

Rare

Blurred vision

decreased interest in sexual intercourse

hair loss or thinning of the hair

inability to have or keep an erection

leg cramps

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

muscle or joint pain

pale skin

swelling of the breasts or breast soreness in both females and males

weakness

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Clonidine ER (Kapvay)

thumbs-up

Pros

Taken by mouth

A non-stimulant option for ADHD

Can be taken by children ages 6 years and older

thumbs-down

Cons

Not a first-choice option for ADHD

Need to take twice daily

Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Clonidine ER (Kapvay)

pharmacist

  • Take clonidine ER (Kapvay) with or without food. If it's hurting your stomach, taking it with food might help.

    • Swallow the tablets whole; never chew, crush, or break the tablet. This can cause the blood levels in the body to rise too quickly, which can raise your risk for side effects. Contact your prescriber if you're having trouble swallowing clonidine ER (Kapvay).

      • Clonidine ER (Kapvay) can make you sleepy and dizzy. Avoid driving or doing tasks that require attention until you know how this medication affects you. Also, don't drink alcohol because it can make sleepiness and dizziness worse.

        • To lower your risk for these heart-related side effects (e.g., low blood pressure, slow heart rate, heart rhythm problems), your prescriber will start you on clonidine ER (Kapvay) at a low dose and slowly raise it based on how well you're tolerating the medication.

          • Take clonidine ER (Kapvay) exactly as prescribed. Don't stop taking it because doing so can put you at risk of withdrawal or "rebound" effects. Examples include high blood pressure, headache, increased heart rate, nervousness, and chest tightness. Contact your prescriber if you're interested in stopping clonidine ER (Kapvay). They'll give you specific instructions on how to lower your dose safely until you can stop the medication.

            • There have been rare reports of low birth weight in babies born to mothers who used clonidine ER (Kapvay) while pregnant. If you're pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of taking clonidine ER (Kapvay) with your obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN).

              • Talk to your prescriber or OB-GYN about using clonidine ER (Kapvay) while breastfeeding. The medication can get into breastmilk, which can cause side effects.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Clonidine ER (Kapvay)

                How well does clonidine ER (Kapvay) work for ADHD?
                While studies show that clonidine ER (Kapvay) can help with symptoms of ADHD, it's not a first-choice option, even among other non-stimulant ADHD medications. Clonidine ER (Kapvay) might be an option for people who can't or don't want to take stimulants. Or, it might be prescribed as an add-on medication for people already taking other ADHD medications. When you start clonidine ER (Kapvay), your psychiatrist will raise your dose slowly over time. It can take several weeks before you experience the full effects of this medication. Talk to your psychiatrist if you have questions about how well clonidine ER (Kapvay) works.
                How long does clonidine ER (Kapvay) last?
                The effects of clonidine ER (Kapvay) last for about 12 hours, which is why it's taken twice per day. Talk to your prescriber if you have concerns with how long clonidine ER (Kapvay) lasts for you.
                Does clonidine ER (Kapvay) cause weight gain?
                No, weight gain isn't a typical side effect of clonidine ER (Kapvay). If you notice unexplained changes in your weight, contact your primary care provider. They can help you figure out potential causes.
                Is clonidine ER (Kapvay) a controlled substance?
                No, clonidine ER (Kapvay) isn't a controlled substance because it doesn't have a risk of addiction or dependence.
                Is clonidine ER (Kapvay) a stimulant?
                No, clonidine ER (Kapvay) is a non-stimulant option for treating ADHD. Stimulant medications are first-choice options for ADHD. But they might not be an appropriate choice for everyone because they can cause serious side effects, like trouble sleeping and poor appetite. In addition, stimulant medications for ADHD are also controlled substances because they have a risk of addiction and dependence. Clonidine ER (Kapvay) might be an option for people who can't or don't want to take stimulant medications for ADHD.
                Are clonidine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine (Catapres, Nexiclon XR) the same thing?
                Both clonidine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine (Catapres, Nexiclon XR) contain clonidine as the active ingredient. But they're FDA-approved to treat different conditions. Kapvay is used to treat ADHD, whereas Catapres and Nexiclon XR are used to treat high blood pressure. They also contain different doses of clonidine. Different forms of clonidine shouldn't be substituted for one another. Talk with your healthcare team if you have more questions about clonidine ER (Kapvay) or clonidine (Catapres, Nexiclon XR).
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                What are the risks and warnings for Clonidine ER (Kapvay)?

                Clonidine ER (Kapvay) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Blood pressure, heart rate, and heart rhythm problems

                • Risk factors: History of heart problems | Kidney failure | History of fainting | Dehydration | Taking other medications that lower blood pressure, slow heart rate, or cause heart rhythm problems

                  Because clonidine ER (Kapvay) works by lowering norepinephrine, it can lower your blood pressure and slow your heart rate. Depending on your other medical conditions, your prescriber might recommend you measure and record your blood pressure at home. If you experience signs of low blood pressure like dizziness or lightheadedness, talk to your prescriber right away. They might need to lower your dose. But, if you've been taking clonidine ER (Kapvay) for a long time and suddenly stop it, you can experience a "rebound" effect and get suddenly high blood pressure. Some other rebound symptoms include headache, fast heart rate, nausea, chest tightness, or feeling nervous or anxious. Try not to miss any doses and don't stop taking clonidine ER (Kapvay) without talking to your healthcare professional first. They will help you get off this medication slowly and safely.

                  Clonidine ER (Kapvay) can also cause heart rhythm problems, like heart block. Your prescriber might order an EKG regularly throughout treatment to test you for an abnormal heart rhythm. If you experience signs of heart rate or rhythm problems like chest discomfort or fainting, go to the hospital right away because you might need emergency treatment.

                  To lower your risk for these heart-related side effects, your prescriber will start you on clonidine ER (Kapvay) at a low dose and slowly raise it based on how well you're tolerating the medication.

                  risk-warning

                  Extreme sleepiness and dizziness

                  • Risk factors: Taking high doses of clonidine ER (Kapvay) | Age 65 years or older | Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications that can cause sleepiness

                    Clonidine ER (Kapvay) can cause extreme sleepiness and drowsiness, especially if you're taking higher doses. This can affect your ability to think, react, and focus. Your risk is higher if you're also taking other medications that can cause drowsiness, such as benzodiazepines, anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, and sleep medications. Make sure you know how this medication affects you before driving a car or doing activities that require your concentration. Talk to your healthcare team right away if you feel too sleepy from clonidine ER (Kapvay).

                    risk-warning

                    Allergic reaction

                    Let your healthcare team know if you've ever had a skin rash after using the clonidine patch. If so, you might also have an allergic reaction to clonidine ER (Kapvay). Depending on how serious your reaction was, they might ask you to consider other options.

                    dosage

                    Clonidine ER (Kapvay) dosage forms

                    The average cost for 30 tablets of 0.1mg of Clonidine ER (Kapvay) is $18.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 84.71% off the average retail price of $117.76.
                    tablet
                    Tablet
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    0.1mg30 tablets$18.00$0.60
                    0.17mg30 tablets$183.72$6.12

                    Typical dosing for Clonidine ER (Kapvay)

                    Adults and children ages 6 years and older: The typical starting dose is 0.1 mg by mouth once daily at bedtime. Your prescriber will raise your dose slowly over time, depending on your symptoms. The maximum recommended dose is 0.2 mg by mouth twice daily.

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Clonidine ER (Kapvay) and other drugs

                    Clonidine ER (Kapvay) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Clonidine ER (Kapvay). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    More on Clonidine ER (Kapvay) interactions

                    clonidine: taking pill from organizer 1646555780

                    7 Clonidine Interactions You Should Know About

                    Written by Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    drug-cost

                    How much does Clonidine ER (Kapvay) cost?

                    To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                    Kapvay (brand)
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                    contraindications-icon

                    Clonidine ER (Kapvay) contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Clonidine ER (Kapvay) will not be safe for you to take.
                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Clonidine ER (Kapvay)?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Clonidine ER (Kapvay). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Clonidine ER (Kapvay)
                    Used for:
                    $18.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Atomoxetine (Strattera)
                    Used for:

                    • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

                    $22.50 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Qelbree (viloxazine)
                    Used for:
                    $380.51 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    images

                    Clonidine ER (Kapvay) images

                    Pink Round Logo And 241 - Clonidine Hydrochloride 0.1mg Extended-Release Tablet
                    This medicine is Pink, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Logo" And "241".Pink Round Logo And 241 - Clonidine Hydrochloride 0.1mg Extended-Release Tablet
                    White Round Cl - Clonidine Hydrochloride 0.1mg Extended-Release Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Cl".White Round Cl - Clonidine Hydrochloride 0.1mg Extended-Release Tablet
                    White Round 651 - Clonidine Hydrochloride 0.1mg Extended-Release Tablet
                    This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "651".White Round 651 - Clonidine Hydrochloride 0.1mg Extended-Release Tablet

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                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). (2024). Clonidine. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

                    Hussain, L. S., et al. (2023). Physiology, noradrenergic synapse. StatPearls.

                    Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2023). Clonidine hydrochloride tablet, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    View All References (5)

                    Ming, X., et al. (2011). Safety and efficacy of clonidine and clonidine extended-release in the treatment of children and adolescents with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders. Adolescent Health, Medicine and Therapeutics.

                    Mother To Baby. (2024). Clonidine. Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS).

                    Neuchat, E. E., et al. (2023). The role of alpha-2 agonists for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children: A review. Neurology International.

                    Wolraich, M. L., et al. (2019). Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. Pediatrics.

                    Yasaei, R., et al. (2023). Clonidine. StatPearls.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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