Clonidine (Catapress)is a potent alpha-2-agonist that suppresses activity of locus coeruleus neurons.Based on your knowledge of the physiology of withdrawal,you would expect clonidine to:
A)have no effect on opiate withdrawal.
B)increase the severity of opiate withdrawal.
C)decrease the severity of opiate withdrawal.
D)have different effects depending on dopamine levels.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clonidine, being an alpha-2-agonist, reduces the sympathetic outflow, leading to decreased withdrawal symptoms during opiate withdrawal. It decreases the release of norepinephrine and can also reduce craving in dependent individuals. Therefore, clonidine would be expected to decrease the severity of opiate withdrawal.

Clonidine (Catapress)is a Potent Alpha-2-Agonist That Suppresses Activity of Locus