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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

My pediatrician prescribed Clonidine. If so what do you guys use for your kids? And how did it work with your kid?

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭

My kid has severe ASD and is non-verbal with challenging behaviors. She said I could use for when I take him to hospital/dentist/haircut/school... I just wonder what other parents experience is as I'm worried of how my kid will behave....

June 24
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A MyAutismTeam Member

I have not used that one but my son takes meds. I am familiar with clonodine. It slightly lowers the blood pressure making the person calmer and tired. My son's add med guanafacine works the same. Everybody's is different but it might work well for every once and awhile like haircuts and things.

June 24 (edited)
A MyAutismTeam Member

It comes with risks from what I understand, risk that many may not want to expose their kiddos too. I guess the question would be has all other avenues been exhausted, if not try the less evasive treatments before escalation.

June 24
MyAutismTeam

It's completely understandable to feel worried — navigating challenging behaviors in stressful environments like the dentist or hospital is genuinely tough, especially with a non-verbal child with severe ASD.

Clonidine is sometimes prescribed to help manage behavioral symptoms in children with autism, such as Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel worried — navigating challenging behaviors in stressful environments like the dentist or hospital is genuinely tough, especially with a non-verbal child with severe ASD.

Clonidine is sometimes prescribed to help manage behavioral symptoms in children with autism, such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and anxiety. It can help a child feel calmer in overwhelming situations. Many MyAutismTeam members have shared experiences with medications like Clonidine. A few things parents commonly note:

- It can take some trial and error to find the right dose
- Some children respond really well, becoming noticeably calmer
- Others may experience side effects like drowsiness or low blood pressure
- Results can vary significantly from child to child

It's always worth keeping a close eye on behavior and any physical changes after starting a new medication, and reporting back to the pediatrician regularly. Alongside medication, some parents also find preparation strategies helpful for stressful appointments. For example, using social stories (visual step-by-step explanations of what will happen) can help reduce anxiety before visits to the dentist, hospital, or haircut appointments.

Always follow the pediatrician's dosing guidance closely, and don't hesitate to call them if anything feels off. You're clearly a caring and proactive parent — that makes a huge difference! 💙

June 24

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