Lofexidine (Lofexidine)
Overview of Lofexidine
Lofexidine Hcl is an alpha-2 receptor agonist similar to clonidine. It appears to act centrally to produce reduction in sympathetic tone, but reduction in blood pressure is less marked. Lofexidine Hcl is used for the symptomatic management of opiod withdrawal.
Indication of Lofexidine
Lofexidine is primarily indicated in conditions like Hypertension, Opiate withdrawal syndrome.
Contraindication of Lofexidine
Lofexidine is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Side Effects of Lofexidine
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Lofexidine, which give rise to further complications include Bradycardia, Prolongation of QI interval.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Lofexidine include Sedation.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Lofexidine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Drowsiness, Dry mouth, Bradycardia, Hypotension, Rebound hypertension on withdrawl, Dry mucous membrane (perticularly dry mouth, throat, and nose), Dry mouth.
Precautions of Lofexidine
Lofexidine should be used with caution in patients with severe coronary insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disese, marked bradycardia (monitor pulse rate frequently); renal impairment; history of depression (on longer tretment); pregnancy and breast feeding; withdraw gradually over 2-4 days (or longer) to minimize risk of rebound hypertension and associated symptoms. Donot drive because Lofexidine may cause drowsiness. Withdrawl of lofexidine therapy should be gradual.