Clonidine Dosage Guide – What You Need to Know

If you’ve been prescribed clonidine, the biggest question is probably “how much should I take?” The answer depends on why you’re using it, your age, and how your body reacts. Below we break down the typical doses, what to expect when you start, and easy tips to stay safe.

Standard adult dosing

For most adults, doctors start with a low dose of 0.1 mg taken twice a day. The goal is to avoid sudden drops in blood pressure or dizziness. After a few days, if the drug is working well and you’re tolerating it, the dose can be increased by 0.1 mg every week until you reach a comfortable level.

Typical maintenance doses range from 0.2 mg to 0.6 mg twice daily (total 0.4‑1.2 mg per day). Some people need a higher dose, up to 1.2 mg twice a day, but that’s only under close doctor supervision.

Take clonidine exactly as your prescriber says – usually with food or a glass of water to reduce stomach upset. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one; then just skip the missed pill and keep your regular schedule.

Pediatric & special cases

Kids get much smaller doses because their bodies process the drug differently. For children aged 6‑12, doctors often start at 0.05 mg once or twice a day. The dose can be raised by 0.025‑0.05 mg weekly, aiming for about 0.1‑0.2 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, split into two doses.

Older adults may also need lower starting amounts because kidney function tends to slow with age. A common approach is to begin at 0.05 mg twice daily and adjust slowly.

If you’re using clonidine for ADHD, withdrawal from opioids, or sleep disorders, the dosing schedule might look a little different. For example, bedtime doses are sometimes higher because they help with night‑time symptoms.

Safety tips and side‑effect basics

Clonidine can make you feel drowsy, especially when you first start or after a dose increase. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Keep hydrated – low blood pressure can cause light‑headedness if you stand up too fast.

Never stop clonidine suddenly; the drug can cause a rebound rise in blood pressure that may be dangerous. If you need to quit, your doctor will taper you down over several days or weeks.

If you notice severe dry mouth, constipation, or an unusual heartbeat, call your healthcare provider. Most side effects are mild and improve as your body gets used to the medication.

Quick checklist before each dose

• Did you take the right amount at the right time?
• Are you feeling any dizziness or unusually sleepy?
• Did you eat or drink enough water?
• Has your doctor told you to adjust the dose recently?

Keeping track of these points helps you catch problems early and makes it easier for your doctor to fine‑tune the plan.

Bottom line: clonidine works best when you start low, go slow, and follow up regularly with your prescriber. With the right dose, many people find relief from high blood pressure, ADHD symptoms, or withdrawal discomfort without big hassles.