Final answer:
Clonidine can alleviate the symptoms of opioid withdrawal through α2 adrenergic agonism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mechanism by which clonidine can help alleviate the symptoms of opioid withdrawal is through mediation of: B. α2 Adrenergic agonism.
Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, which means it stimulates alpha-2 receptors in the brain. These receptors help regulate the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in the stress response. By stimulating alpha-2 receptors, clonidine reduces the release of norepinephrine, which can alleviate the symptoms of opioid withdrawal, such as anxiety, restlessness, and sweating.
This mechanism of action is different from other options listed in the question, such as norepinephrine reuptake inhibition, alpha-1 adrenergic antagonism, dopamine antagonism, and serotonin antagonism. These mechanisms are not directly involved in the alleviation of opioid withdrawal symptoms.