Abstract

CLONIDINE INDUCED HALLUCINATIONS: A CASE REPORT

Dr. R. Ganesan*, Jaisy Jose and Jeslin Joy

ABSTRACT

Background: Clonidine is an imidazoline derivative which is used in the treatment of Hypertension. Most common side effects include sedation and dry mouth. Rarely delirium with visual and auditory hallucinations has been reported as adverse effects. Case Discussion: We report a case of a lady who has been taking Clonidine for hypertension presented to the Casuality due to breathlessness during her routine dialysis. She was diagnosed to have accelerated hypertension with a BP of 200/100 mmHg. Her clonidine dose was increased to 0.6 mg from 0.3 mg. She developed hallucinations with increase in dose of clonidine. Conclusion: Specific enquiry should be made to find out if any hallucinations or delirium occurs in patients who have been taking clonidine, otherwise which may lead to life threatening situations. Cessation of therapy and careful patient observation are needed in such cases.

Keywords: Clonidine, hypertension, hallucinations, delirium, adverse effects.