Onyda XR - Liquid form of Clonodine​

Onyda XR is an extended-release oral suspension of clonidine hydrochloride, approved for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients aged 6 years and older. RxList
​Mechanism of Action: Clonidine is a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. By stimulating these receptors in the brain, it reduces sympathetic nerve impulses, leading to decreased heart rate and blood pressure. While the exact mechanism by which clonidine alleviates ADHD symptoms is not fully understood, it's believed that modulation of norepinephrine transmission plays a role in improving attention and reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity. Empr
Clinical Benefits:
  • ADHD Symptom Reduction: Onyda XR has been shown to improve hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness in children with ADHD. Drugs.com
  • Non-Stimulant Option: As a non-stimulant medication, it offers an alternative for patients who may not tolerate stimulant medications or for whom stimulants are contraindicated.
  • Once-Daily Dosing: The extended-release formulation allows for once-daily administration, which can improve adherence to the treatment regimen.
Dosage:
  • Starting Dose: 0.1 mg orally once daily at bedtime, with or without food.
  • Titration: Increase in increments of 0.1 mg per day at weekly intervals, based on clinical response and tolerability.
  • Maximum Dose: 0.4 mg once daily at bedtime.
  • Administration: Shake the suspension gently for at least 10 seconds before each use. Use the provided oral dosing dispenser for accurate measurement. Do not substitute Onyda XR for other clonidine products on a milligram-per-milligram basis due to differing pharmacokinetic profiles. RxList
Prevalence of Side Effects: Common side effects associated with Onyda XR include:
  • Drowsiness/Somnolence: Reported in approximately 33% of patients.
  • Dry Mouth: Occurs in about 40% of patients.
  • Fatigue: Commonly reported.
  • Irritability: Observed in some patients.
  • Nightmares and Sleep Disturbances: Including trouble sleeping.
  • Constipation: Noted in certain cases.
  • Dizziness: Experienced by some individuals.
These side effects are generally mild and tend to diminish with continued therapy. However, clonidine can also cause dose-related decreases in blood pressure and heart rate; therefore, monitoring is recommended during dose adjustments. Drugs.com, BioSpace​

In summary, Onyda XR provides a non-stimulant treatment option for ADHD with once-daily dosing. While it offers clinical benefits in symptom management, healthcare providers should monitor patients for potential side effects, especially those related to cardiovascular function.