Description

Arkamin 100 µg (Clonidine) – Small Dose, Broad Benefits

Arkamin 100 µg contains clonidine hydrochloride, a centrally acting α₂‑adrenergic agonist used primarily for hypertension. At 0.1 mg, it is ideal for initiating treatment or when low-dose therapy is required. 

◾ More Uses Beyond Hypertension

• Treatment of resistant hypertension and hypertensive emergency with careful titration 
• Management of opioid, alcohol, nicotine withdrawal symptoms 
• Prevention of migraine attacks and menopausal flushes 
• Off-label use as adjunct therapy for ADHD, tics, anxiety and insomnia in children ≥6 years 

⚙️ Mechanism of Action

Clonidine lowers blood pressure by stimulating α₂A receptors in the brainstem, reducing sympathetic outflow, vasoconstriction, and heart rate. It may also act via imidazoline‑1 receptors. Symptom relief in withdrawal and migraines is linked to central calming effects. 

⚖️ Dosage & Titration

Typical adult initiation: **100 µg (0.1 mg) twice daily** (morning and night), titrating by **100 µg weekly** to a usual maintenance range of **200–600 µg/day** in divided doses. Maximum recommended total daily dose: **2.4 mg** (2400 µg). 

🧪 Side Effects to Know

• Very common (>10%): dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, headache, constipation, numbness 
• Common (1–10%): insomnia, nausea, bradycardia, erectile dysfunction, weight change, abnormal LFTs 
• Rare (<0.1%): hallucinations, AV block, Raynaud’s phenomenon, hair loss, colonic pseudo-obstruction 
• Overdose: profound hypotension, bradycardia, CNS depression; fatal toxicity is rare but requires immediate care 

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

• Do **not stop abruptly**—may cause rebound hypertension, tachycardia, or hypertensive crisis. Taper slowly under supervision. 
• Use with caution in elderly, renal or hepatic impairment (may prolong half-life up to 48 hours). 
• Careful dose titration needed due to narrow therapeutic window—small errors in dosing carry risk. 
• Avoid alcohol or CNS depressants—can worsen drowsiness and hypotension. 
• Use with other antihypertensives, beta blockers or sedatives increases risk of bradycardia and hypotension. 
• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: consult physician—possible fetal/neonatal effects. 

📌 Why Choose Arkamin 100 µg?

• Ideal low-strength starting dose for dose-sensitive patients (elderly/low volume)
• Affordable brand by Torrent Pharmaceuticals, widely available in India
• Stepped-dose flexibility enables better tolerance and adherence

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can Arkamin 100 µg control hypertension alone?

Yes—as monotherapy in mild to moderate hypertension. For resistant hypertension, it’s often used with other antihypertensives under doctor supervision. 

2. How quickly does it act?

Onset: 30–60 minutes post-dose. Full antihypertensive effect may take up to 2 weeks. 

3. What should I do if I miss a dose?

Take as soon as remembered—but only if it’s still the same day. If too close to the next scheduled dose, skip and continue. Do not double up. 

4. Is blood pressure monitoring needed?

Yes—baseline and periodic checks are advised, especially during dose titration or in presence of other cardiovascular medications.

5. Is stopping Arkamin sudden safe?

No—abrupt discontinuation can lead to rebound hypertension and tachycardia. Dose tapering over several days to weeks is essential.