Hypertensive Crisis in a Pediatric Patient Experiencing Clonidine Withdrawal

Can Cao1, Matthew L Lorenz1,2,3, Phillip Sojka1,3

  • 1The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.

Insights

Clonidine withdrawal can cause severe hypertension and elevated metanephrines in children. Gradual tapering of clonidine is recommended to prevent these serious withdrawal symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pharmacology
  • Adrenergic Agonists

Background:

  • Clonidine, a central alpha-adrenoreceptor agonist, was initially developed for hypertension.
  • It is now widely used for pediatric sleep disorders, behavioral concerns, and ADHD.

Observation:

  • A case report details a pediatric patient experiencing prolonged clonidine withdrawal.
  • Symptoms included severe hypertension and elevated serum metanephrines.

Findings:

  • Clonidine withdrawal in children can manifest as hypertensive urgency and sympathetic overstimulation.
  • Withdrawal can also cause significant increases in serum metanephrine levels.

Implications:

  • Clinicians must recognize the risks of clonidine withdrawal in pediatric patients.
  • Awareness of these risks can help prevent and manage withdrawal symptoms.
  • Gradual clonidine tapering is crucial for avoiding adverse withdrawal events.
Abstract

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