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What Is Lofexidine?

Lofexidine is a prescription central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist marketed as Lucemyra and in generic tablets. It is indicated to reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and assist abrupt opioid discontinuation in adults. Each tablet contains 0.18 mg lofexidine, equivalent to 0.2 mg lofexidine hydrochloride.

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What Is Lofexidine?

Lofexidine is a prescription central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist marketed as Lucemyra and in generic tablets. It is indicated to reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and assist abrupt opioid discontinuation in adults. Each tablet contains 0.18 mg lofexidine, equivalent to 0.2 mg lofexidine hydrochloride.

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How Does Lofexidine Work?

Lofexidine stimulates central alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, reducing norepinephrine release and sympathetic nervous system activity. This decreases some physical symptoms of opioid withdrawal, but it does not eliminate withdrawal or directly treat opioid cravings.

Who Is Treated With Lofexidine?

Lofexidine is used in adults undergoing abrupt opioid discontinuation. It is a short-term treatment for withdrawal symptoms, not a standalone treatment for opioid use disorder. Patients with serious cardiovascular disease, a slow heart rate, or factors that increase QT prolongation risk require careful assessment.

How Is Lofexidine Dosed?

The usual starting dose is three 0.18 mg tablets, totaling 0.54 mg, taken four times daily about five to six hours apart. The maximum single dose is 0.72 mg and the maximum total daily dose is 2.88 mg. Treatment can continue for up to 14 days, followed by gradual dose reduction over two to four days. Kidney or liver impairment requires dose adjustment.

What Serious Risks Are Linked to Lofexidine?

Serious risks include low blood pressure, slow heart rate, fainting, QT prolongation, and increased sedation with other central nervous system depressants. Abrupt discontinuation can cause rebound blood pressure elevation. Opioid tolerance can decrease after withdrawal, raising the risk of fatal overdose if opioid use resumes. Blood pressure, pulse, and relevant cardiac risk factors are monitored during treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lofexidine

What does lofexidine treat?

Lofexidine reduces opioid withdrawal symptoms during abrupt opioid discontinuation in adults.

What is the usual starting dose?

The usual starting dose is 0.54 mg, taken four times daily at five- to six-hour intervals.

How long can lofexidine treatment continue?

Current labeling permits treatment for up to 14 days, followed by a gradual taper over two to four days.

Does lofexidine treat opioid use disorder by itself?

No. Lofexidine addresses withdrawal symptoms and is not a substitute for ongoing opioid use disorder treatment.

References

DailyMed - LUCEMYRA (lofexidine hydrochloride) tablet, film coated. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=b748f308-ba71-4fd9-84ec-ec7e0f210885. Date Accessed October 13, 2026.

Lofexidine. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513054/. Date Accessed October 13, 2026.

Lofexidine. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618036.html. Date Accessed October 13, 2026.

Lofexidine. PubChem. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/30668. Date Accessed October 13, 2026.

Lofexidine Hydrochloride. PubChem. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Lofexidine-hydrochloride. Date Accessed October 13, 2026.