A Single-Center, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study on the Efficacy of Clonidine in Detoxification of Opioid Dependency

Background: Clonidine is α2 adrenergic receptor agonist with detrimental effect on locus coeruleus. It is considered as one of the detoxification drugs in order to reduce opiate withdrawal syndrome. We conducted this study in order to assess clonidine effect on withdrawal symptoms and signs. Materials and methods This double blind, clinical trial, single centered study was conducted among 104 male inpatient heroin dependent patients in Psychiatric Center. They were selected via convenient sampling method. Subsequently, they were divided randomly into two matched groups: trial–control (clonidine –placebo) groups. Withdrawal symptoms and signs based on DSM–5 were compared in groups. Results: In 14 day detoxification period (in 7 th and 14 th day examination), the effect of clonidine on craving and agitation (p < 0.01) was significant. With respect to other symptoms and signs, clonidine was not effective prominently. Discussion: Due to different results compared to previous studies in this area. Clonidine use with respect to opioid withdrawal syndrome needs further evaluation or may need to revise.