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Home > Drug Category > Blood Pressure Medication > Catapres and Equivalent

Catapres Information

Catapres (Clonidine) is used in the management of hypertension to reduce blood pressure. It is typically used when other first-line medications haven't controlled the blood pressure effectively or cannot be used. It is often used alone or in combination with other medications such as thiazide diuretics. Catapres contains the active ingredient clonidine hydrochloride and belongs to the class of centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. Clonidine works by stimulating alpha-receptors in the brain's vasomotor center. This action appears to inhibit the sympathetic nervous system's fight-or-flight response, effectively telling the brain to reduce catecholamine production, such as norepinephrine. As a result, the blood vessels relax, reducing blood pressure and preventing long-term vascular damage associated with untreated high blood pressure.

Aside from its primary use in treating hypertension, clonidine is a versatile medication with other uses. It is also used in specialized settings for the treatment of chronic pain from conditions like cancer or migraines. It may also occasionally be prescribed to help reduce the frequency of hot flashes in women experiencing menopause, especially when hormone replacement therapy is not needed or not suitable. It can also be used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as it helps with impulsivity and hyperactivity, sometimes used alongside stimulants or as an alternative for patients who can't tolerate them. Other possible off-label uses of this medication include the treatment of Tourette syndrome, withdrawal symptoms from opioid or alcohol dependence, and restless leg syndrome. Its safety and efficacy in the off-label treatment of these conditions are still being studied. It is worth noting that, because of its effects on the central nervous system, it is rarely a first-line choice today and is often reserved for cases where other treatments have failed.

Catapres Side Effects

Although not experienced by everyone, clonidine has its side effects. Common side effects of this medication include constipation, decreased sexual ability, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, feeling unwell, headache, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, and trouble sleeping. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Bowel problems such as constipation;
• Confusion, hallucinations, low mood;
• Difficulty changing visual focus;
• Difficulty urinating;
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting - especially when getting up from a lying or sitting position;
• Irregular heartbeat;
• Joint or muscle pain;
• Liver problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Catapres Precautions

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to clonidine, other ingredients in Catapres, or any other medicines. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Depression;
• Eye conditions;
• Galactosaemia (a rare genetic condition causing galactose intolerance);
• Heart disease;
• Kidney disease;
• Raynaud's disease

Clonidine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and changes in your ability to focus quickly. Therefore, refrain from driving, operating machinery, or performing other tasks requiring quick focus changes until you understand how this medication affects you. Avoid taking alcohol while using this medication, as it can potentiate its sedative effects. If you stop taking this medication abruptly, your body’s nervous system, which the medication has suppressed, may overreact by flooding the system with catecholamines. This can lead to a dangerous, rapid spike in blood pressure, tremors, and agitation. Therefore, do not abruptly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

This medication is not recommended for use in pregnant women as it can cross the placenta and affect the growing fetus. Consult your doctor before using this medication while breastfeeding, as it can pass through breastmilk and affect the breastfed infant. The safety and effectiveness of using Catapres have not been established for individuals younger than 18 years. Some medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants, may actually decrease the blood pressure-lowering effect of clonidine, making the medication less effective. Therefore, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including herbal medications and supplements, that you are taking before starting clonidine to prevent drug interactions.

Catapres (Clonidine) is available in tablets for oral use. Swallow them whole with water at the same time each day with or without meals. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose of this medication for you depending on your condition. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly without checking with your doctor. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Catapres?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Catapres.