clonidine suppression test

The clonidine suppression test is a medical procedure used to help diagnose the cause of high cortisol levels, often related to conditions like Cushing's syndrome. Clonidine is a medication that normally reduces hormone production by suppressing certain signals in the brain. During the test, a patient takes clonidine, and doctors measure their cortisol levels afterward. If cortisol decreases significantly, it suggests the excess is due to a non-pituitary source. If cortisol remains high, it may indicate the problem originates from the pituitary gland. This test helps doctors identify the correct treatment approach.