Autism and Clonodine. Any experiences?

Question

I have a 6 year old son with autism. He has major sleep issues, more like not sleeping. His Developmental Specialist has decided to try him on Clonodine. We had previously done Melatonin 3-5mg with varying results. It either works great or doesn't work at all. He will sleep 10pm-2am and then he is done. The reason for switching meds is because not sleeping has effected school. I would like to hear from anyone who has had experience with Clonodine. I did quite a bit of research and I work in a hospital so I know what it is and does but I am still a little wary. Any side effects that I should be worried about? Please share any good or bad stories. My husband & I know that we are not alone.

Thanks to all.

Answer 1

We had a bad experience with this drug.  I'd advise you seek a second opinion from another doctor.

Answer 2

My son whom is five with a mood disorder is on this medication along with Risperdal.  When he was first put on Clonidine he got told me for a couple days when he woke up that his head felt funny.  This went away soon after waking up, and within a few days from starting.  Giving him a drink and a light snack before rising helped.  Once you start this medication you need to use caution when stopping.  You can not just stop it without doctor's supervision because his blood pressure could drop too low.  Also I do not give my son any cough medicine while on this medication.  It could cause his blood pressure to drop to low and he could get real sick and die.  DO NOT GIVE ANY COUGH MEDICINE WITHOUT DOCTOR"S APPROVAL....

Answer 3

My daughter has Bi-Polo. She had problems sleeping. The doctor put her on the clonodine which is I think a blood pressure med. This worked well. She was able to sleep through the night and it has gone a long way to helping her cope with the bi-polo. It did make her very sleepy in the afternoon. We adjusted the dosage and then it was great. Now the doctor has weened her off this med completely. And she seems to be doing very well now.  She was on clonodine for about six months. Be careful with this med, like most of the meds in this range it is addictive. The doctor eased my daughter off it and she had no ill affects coming off it.

I think with my daughter it started to work pretty quickly. Like with a day or two. Maybe you need to have another consultation with your doctor just to get clear about the meds. If not the doctor then the pharmacist.