Clonidine for Opiate Withdrawal - Addiction Group Clonidine is also used off-label to help treat: Dysmenorrhea (severe menstrual cramps) Tourette's syndrome Menopausal hot flashes Alcohol and opioid withdrawal Clonidine comes as a tablet or an extended-release, long-acting pill. Both are taken by mouth once or twice a day or as directed by your doctor.