Which is a common side effect of clonidine that should be discussed with the client?

Drowsiness is a well-known side effect of clonidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist commonly used to treat conditions like hypertension and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This medication works by stimulating receptors in the brain that help to reduce nerve signals that can lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. As a result, one of the primary effects of clonidine is sedation or a calming effect, which can lead to drowsiness in many patients.

It is important for patients to be made aware of this potential side effect because it can impact their daily activities, including driving and operating machinery. Additionally, if patients are unaware of the possibility of drowsiness, they may be at risk for falls or accidents. Therefore, discussing this side effect helps ensure that clients use the medication safely and understand how it may affect their daily life.

In contrast, while chest pain, frequent urination, and nausea can occur with various medications, they are not commonly associated with clonidine and are not primary considerations for patients when starting this treatment.