Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

Clonidine is classified as:

1. An alpha1 antagonist

2. A beta blocker

3. An alpha2 adrenergic agonist

4. A diuretic

The correct answer is: An alpha2 adrenergic agonist

Clonidine is classified as an alpha2 adrenergic agonist because it binds to and activates alpha2 receptors in the body. This leads to a decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity and a decrease in blood pressure. The other options, alpha1 antagonist, beta blocker, and diuretic, are all incorrect because they do not accurately describe the action of clonidine. Clonidine does not directly affect alpha1 receptors, block beta receptors, or increase fluid excretion in the body. This means that while these options may have some similar characteristics as an alpha2 adrenergic agonist, they do not correctly categorize clonidine.