<prompt> The following statement is not true about the use of clonidine in the treatment of hypeension ?Reduction in central sympathetic outflowIncrease in LDL-cholesterol on prolonged useSedation and xerostomia are common side effectsIt can be combined with vasodialators  <response>: Ans. is b i.e., Increase in LDL-cholesterol on prolonged use o Clonidine is a selective a2 receptor agonist. It can act on peripheral a2 receptors also but its major hemodynamic effects result from action on central sites primarily in medulla Vasomotor centre o It stimulates a2 receptors present mainly postjunctionally at these sites central 4 decrease in sympathetic outflow 4 fall in B.P. and bradycardia. So it is used as an antihypeensive o Decreased sympathetic outflow to kidney results in reduced renin release so it can be combined with other antihypeensives which increase plasma renin activity such as Diuretics Vasodilators CCBs ACE inhibitors Clonidine has no effect on plasma lipid level. o Adverse effects sedation mental depression dryness of mouth xerostomia, nose and eyes constipation impotency 