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Home > Drug Category > ADHD Medication > Kapvay and Equivalent

Kapvay Information

Kapvay (clonidine hydrochloride) is an extended-release tablet used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years. It can be used alone or with a stimulant medication. The active ingredient, clonidine, is a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. Its exact mechanism for treating ADHD isn't fully understood. However, it is believed to work by stimulating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain's prefrontal cortex. This helps to regulate neurotransmitters involved in attention, impulsivity, and executive function. As an extended-release tablet, Kapvay is designed to provide a steady level of medication throughout the day and night to help manage symptoms.

Kapvay Side Effects

The most common side effects of Kapvay may include drowsiness, fatigue, upper abdominal pain, irritability, insomnia, and dry mouth. It can also cause a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate. These effects may be more pronounced at the beginning of treatment. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Bradycardia: A significantly slow heart rate.
• Cardiac conduction abnormalities, Such as heart block.
• Hypotension: A significant drop in blood pressure, which may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
• Rebound hypertension: A sudden and dangerous increase in blood pressure if the medication is stopped abruptly.
• Severe allergic reactions: Signs include rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing.

Kapvay Precautions

Do not use Kapvay if you are allergic to clonidine or any of its ingredients. It is critical not to stop taking Kapvay abruptly, as this can lead to a rapid increase in blood pressure (rebound hypertension), which could be dangerous. Kapvay can cause a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate, so use with caution if you have a history of heart disease, low blood pressure, or a history of fainting. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins.

Kapvay can interact with several medications. Using it with other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, tranquillizers) can increase drowsiness and sedation. Taking Kapvay with other medicines for high blood pressure can cause an additive blood pressure-lowering effect. Concomitant use with drugs that affect cardiac conduction (e.g., calcium channel blockers, digitalis) should be done with caution. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Clonidine is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it can cross the placental barrier. However, its effect on the fetus is not fully known. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Clonidine is excreted in human milk, and a decision should be made to either stop nursing or discontinue the medication, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Kapvay is typically taken twice daily, in the morning and at bedtime. The tablets must be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or broken, as this will disrupt the extended-release mechanism and could cause a dangerous increase in the concentration of the medication. It is crucial to take the pills consistently. If you miss a dose, do not take an extra dose. Take the next dose at your regularly scheduled time. Never stop taking this medicine without first talking to your doctor. Store Kapvay at room temperature, protected from light and moisture. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Kapvay?

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