α‐2‐Adrenoceptor Function in Alcohol Withdrawal: A Pilot Study of the Effects of IV Clonidine in Alcoholics and Normals

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Abstract
Central α-adrenoceptor function was studied in seven withdrawing alcoholics and compared with seven normal controls using the clonidine challenge test The alcoholic group had significantly elevated basal levels of Mood pressure and plasma 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl glycol. The percentage of fall in Mood pressure produced by clonidine was blunted in the alcoholics. There was disruption of the neuroendocrine effects of clonidine on growth hormone release. Physiological indices of withdrawal, in particular plasma 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl glycol and blood pressure correlated with measures of previous withdrawal experiences, supporting the idea that kindling might occur with repeated episodes of withdrawal.