Catapres (Clonidine)

Why is Catapres (Clonidine hydrochloride) prescribed?

Catapres is a prescription medicine used to control symptoms of high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to a class of drugs called Alpha-adrenergic agonists. It stimulates the alpha-adrenergic receptors in the brain and inhibits sympathetic activity, reducing heart rate and blood pressure.

The safety and effectiveness of Catapres in children are not known.

Benefits and uses of Catapres

High blood pressure:
Catapres is used alone or with other antihypertensive agents to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps to reduce the risk of life-threatening health conditions such as strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Catapres tablets work quickly and lower the patient’s blood pressure within 30 to 60 minutes after an oral dose.

Side Effects of Catapres

Patients taking the medication may experience some common side effects, including:

• fatigue
• dry mouth
• constipation
• headache
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• nausea
• sleeping problem

Catapres may also cause adverse side effects, including:

• withdrawal symptoms such as nervousness, agitation, headache, tremor, and a rapid rise in blood pressure
• slow or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, fainting
• agitation, anxiety, hallucinations, depression, nervousness
• sleep disorder, nightmares
• abdominal pain, salivary gland pain, hepatitis, nausea, vomiting
• increased sensitivity to alcohol
• muscle or joint pain
• blurred vision, dryness of eyes
• enlarged breast tissue in men
• decreased sexual activity, erectile dysfunction, urinary retention
• skin rash, hives, hair loss, swelling in the arms and legs

Talk to your doctor immediately if you notice any side effects of Catapres that bother you.

How to take Catapres?

Catapres is available as tablets in 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg and 0.3 mg dosage strengths. The tables are taken orally with or without food as prescribed by your doctor. The recommended starting dose of Catapres is 0.1 mg tablet twice a day (morning and bedtime). The dose may be increased at weekly intervals if required.

Patients should take the tablets regularly at the same time to get the maximum benefit. In case you miss a dose of Catapres, take it as soon as possible. But if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip that dose and take the next dose at the usual time.

Drug Interactions

Catapres may interact with other medications which change the working mechanism of the medications and increase the risk for adverse side effects. Before starting Catapres, tell your doctor about all the prescription, nonprescription or herbal medicines you are taking, including:

• Drugs that cause drowsiness such as barbiturates
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen
• Antidepressants such as imipramine or mirtazapine
• Antipsychotics such as chlorpromazine
• Diuretics
• Beta-blockers such as atenolol
• Alpha-blockers such as prazosin
• Vasodilators such as diazoxide
• Calcium antagonists such as diltiazem hydrochloride
• ACE inhibitors such as captopril or lisinopril
• Digitalis glycosides such as digoxin

Safety Information

• Do not use Catapres if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or have galactose intolerance and heart conditions such as slow or irregular heartbeat.
• Tell your doctor if you have had medical conditions such as heart problems, heart failure, stroke, ischaemic attack, depression, diabetes, neuromuscular problems, constipation, kidney disorders, and pheochromocytoma.
• Do not take the medication if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Patients should not stop taking Catapres or lower the dosage without consulting their doctors as the medicine may cause withdrawal symptoms.
• Do not drive or use heavy machinery just after taking Catapres.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages while taking Catapres.
• Catapres should be prescribed with caution in patients who wear contact lenses as it may cause dry eyes.
• If you are having surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking Catapres.

Is there a Generic Catapres available?

Yes, the generic equivalent to Catapres Clonidine hydrochloride.

Can I buy Catapres without prescription?

No, a valid prescription is required for this medication.

Is there any Catapres Coupon available?

Yes, You can save upto 80% on generic and brand Catapres using our prescription coupons.

Important

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.