ClonidineDose, contraindications and adverse effects for Cats, Cattle and Dogs.

Central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist; used for sedation, pain modulation, and anxiety-related behavior in dogs. Clonidine may be useful as a preanesthetic medication and as an epidural adjunct, with or without opioids, in dogs1-3 and cattle. The use of clonidine as an adjunctive treatment for certain behavioral conditions in dogs has been of interest, but limited evidence supporting its use is available. An open trial using clonidine on an as-needed basis for fear-based behavioral problems suggested th

Clonidine acts in the brain stem, stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors, and results in reduced sympathetic outflow from the CNS and decreased renal vascular resistance, peripheral resistance, cardiac rate, and blood pressure. Renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rates are not affected.

Clonidine is contraindicated in patients known to be hypersensitive to it. It should be used with caution in patients with severe cardiovascular disease, including conduction disturbances or heart failure; lower dosages may be required in patients with renal insufficiency. Abrupt cessation of oral clonidine use has produced withdrawal-like symptoms (eg, agitation, nervousness, tremor, elevated blood pressure) in humans.

Bradycardia and hypotension have been observed following epidur- Clonidine 295 al2,11 and IM12 administration in dogs. Dogs receiving IV clonidine for the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency have experienced adverse reactions including sedation, aggressive behavior, hypotension, collapse, and bradycardia (responsive to atropine) lasting for 15 to 60 minutes post-clonidine administration. Marked sedation and ataxia occurred after epidural administration in horses.

■ Baseline and periodic blood pressure, and heart rate and rhythm with chronic use. NOTE: Cardiovascular effects usually only persist for 1 hour after dose. ■ Clinical efficacy