Definition

A medication used to lower blood pressure, prevent migraines, and reduce withdrawal symptoms from opioids and nicotine.

Example

The doctor prescribed clonidine to help manage my high blood pressure.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of clonidine?

Yeah, I think it's used for high blood pressure, right?

Exactly! I read it can also help with withdrawal symptoms.

That's interesting; I didn't know it had multiple uses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clonidine is derived from the prefix "clon-" (from Greek "klon", meaning a sprout or twig) and the suffix "-idine" (used in chemistry to denote a compound). The word refers to a compound that is related to the sprouting or branching of certain chemical structures, particularly in its function as a medication affecting the nervous system.

Memory Tip

Think of 'clon-' as relating to a 'sprout' or 'branch' in chemistry, which helps you remember that clonidine is a compound that affects the nervous system.

Visually Confused Words