RSD Alert
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RSD Alert is a voluntary
organisation publishing RSD/CRPS
information, mostly provided
by our readers.
Every approved medical drug works for some people but not for others.
Don't be alarmed by what you read. If in doubt consult your medical
advisor.
To make personal contact with one of the RSD Alert Team click CONTACT.
To pass on information for publication in "Drugs on RSD Alert"
click Submit Info.
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Drugs |
Drugs on RSD Alert
(notes and comments from correspondents) |
Clonidine |
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Description |
An alpha blocker, available in patch or tablet form, which targets the sympathetic nerves. |
Side effects(Don't be unduly alarmed. All drugs cause side effects for some patients) |
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Warnings(These are standard cautions but may not be applicable to your case) |
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Comments |
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| A
lot of RSD patients have problems with sweating. Clonidine , which
is available in patch or tablet form, specifically targets the sympathetic
nerves. That is why these patches are used to block the pathway
of the nerves, thus relieving pain. In tablet form it acts as a
systemic sympathetic nerve block because the sympathetic nerves
control the calibre of blood vessels by acting on the smooth muscle
surrounding the vessels, thus allowing them to open up . They use
Clonidine as a blood pressure tablet, but it is also used for menopausal
flushing and sweating… and it can also help RSD sufferers.
I suggest people talk to their doctors to check what their blood pressure is like to see how much their blood pressure can safely drop. A home BP monitor is recommended. The modern ones are effectively idiot-proof, thus you can keep increasing tabs (at doctor's orders) while monitoring your own BP (it can be embarrassing passing out in the street!) The object of Clonidine is to take enough meds to control sweating, but still be able to stand up without feeling too dizzy. This type of drug is called an "alpha blocker" and it is important that people do not take "alpha 2 blockers" as well. In very early stages of RSD Clonidine has been known to slow the RSD down and in SOME cases, effectively treat it by calming down the over-activity of the sympathetic nerves. It might also help the high blood pressure that some RSDers get. Clonidine is a 3-in-1 solution - it stops the sweating, helps fight RSD and keeps blood pressure. We need all ammunition that we can get! Pam - Brisbane, Australia |
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