Concern Over Double Dosage of Clonidine
My son, who is 19 years old, typically takes a nightly dose of 0.3mg of Clonidine along with 6mg of Melatonin. He is diagnosed with severe Autism, so either my husband or I are responsible for giving him his medication. Unfortunately, tonight he received an accidental double dosage of both medications. He stands at 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 325 pounds. Given the situation, should we seek immediate medical attention at urgent care? I am particularly worried about the possibility of his heart rate and blood pressure decreasing significantly throughout the night. I appreciate any advice you can provide.
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 4:31:03 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about a double dosage of Clonidine and Melatonin, particularly given your son's medical history and current medications. Clonidine can affect heart rate and blood pressure, and Melatonin is typically used to aid sleep but can also interact with other medications.
Key Points:
- Risk of Double Dosage: Clonidine can lower heart rate and blood pressure; a double dose may increase this risk. Melatonin generally has fewer immediate risks in higher doses, but it could enhance sedation.
- Son's Characteristics: At 6 feet 4 inches and 325 pounds, your son may metabolize medications differently than average, but he is still at risk for potential cardiovascular effects.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Closely:
- Check his heart rate and blood pressure, if you can. Be alert for signs of abnormal heart rates (very slow or fast), fainting, dizziness, or confusion.
- Observe for any increase in sedation or difficulty waking him.
-
Contact Poison Control:
- Call your local poison control center or a medical professional who specializes in toxicology. They can provide immediate guidance based on the dosage and your son's health status.
-
Emergency Care:
- If you observe concerning symptoms like significant difficulty waking him, extremely low heart rate (under 60 bpm), low blood pressure (if you can measure it), or trouble breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.
-
Stay Calm:
- It's also important to remain calm and reassure your son if he shows any signs of distress. Your calm presence can help him feel secure while you monitor the situation.
Taking these actions will help ensure his safety and provide you with guidance specific to his situation.
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