What is Catapres (Clonidine) used for?

Catapres (Clonidine) is an oral medicine used to treat patients with hypertension. The medication operates by relaxing the blood vessels in the body to allow easier circulation and reduce the amount of work required by the heart. This action may also make it useful for preventing migraines or hot flushes occurring in postmenopausal women. Your physician may prescribe it for other unlisted purposes, as well.

How should I use Catapres (Clonidine)?

Always use Catapres (Clonidine) according to your physician's instructions to get the safest and most effective results from treatment. The typical dosage is one tablet taken twice daily, but your particular directions will depend on the condition being treated, your current health, and the severity of your symptoms. Swallow the tablets whole along with a large glass of water. They may be taken on an empty stomach, but a meal or snack is suggested before use if you experience nausea. Never alter the form of the tablets as this may destroy or change the effects of their contents. Ask your physician any questions you have about the medicine to ensure the correct administration.

What are the side effects of Catapres (Clonidine)?

Side effects associated with the use of Catapres (Clonidine) include:

• Headache
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea or vomiting
• Upset stomach or constipation
• Joint or muscle pain
• Blurry vision or stinging of the eyes
• Increased urination
• Mild skin rash
• Insomnia
• Decreased sex drive, impotence, or trouble having an orgasm

Serious side effects that may require emergency medical attention are irregular heartbeats, unusual swelling, trouble breathing, slowed heart rate, numbness in the hands or feet, flu symptoms, confusion, faintness, or a severe skin reaction. Immediately inform your physician about any worrying or intense side effects you experience to make sure the correct alterations are made to your regimen to prevent further problems such as lower doses or reduced application frequency.

Please Note

Do not use Catapres (Clonidine) if you are lactose intolerant, if the patient being treated is a child under the age of eighteen, or if you have a very slow heart rate. Also inform your physician if you have a history of depression, constipation, heart failure, poor blood circulation, peripheral vascular disease, or decreased kidney function as these conditions may cause unexpected complications during treatment.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Catapres (Clonidine). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.