Catapres
Generic Name: Clonidine
What is Catapres?
Catapres is used alone or with other medications to lower high blood pressure.What is the most important information I should know about Catapres?
You must take Catapres regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be weeks before you get the full benefit of Catapres. You must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Catapres does not cure high blood pressure; it only keeps it under control.Do not abruptly stop taking Catapres without consulting your doctor.
If you are using Catapres patch and develop an allergic reaction, rash, vesicles, or severe redness at the treatment site, contact your doctor. You may also develop an allergic reaction or skin rash if you discontinue using the Catapres patch and begin taking Catapres oral tablets. If you experience a mild skin irritation at the treatment site while using Catapres patch before completing the full 7 days of therapy, you may remove the Catapres patch and replace it with a new Catapres patch to a different site on your body.
Used Catapres patches will continue to contain large amounts of drug. It is therefore important for you to keep both used and unused patches away from children and pets and to dispose of used Catapres patches properly. Following the use of a Catapres patch, fold the adhesive side in half and discard it.
Catapres may cause dryness of the eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses.
Who should not take Catapres?
Do not take Catapres if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or to any of the ingredients of the patch.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Catapres?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Catapres. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart disease, kidney failure, had a stroke, or have recently had a heart attack.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Tablets
Adults: The usual starting dose is 0.1 milligrams (mg) taken 2 times a day in the morning and at bedtime. The regular dose of Catapres is determined by increasing the daily dose by 0.1 mg at weekly intervals until the desired response is achieved. A larger portion of the increased dose can be taken at bedtime to reduce the potential side effects of drowsiness and dry mouth that may appear when you begin taking this drug.
Transdermal Patch
The patch comes in different strengths. Your doctor will determine which is best for you based on your blood pressure response.
How should I take Catapres?
Take Catapres exactly as prescribed, even if you are feeling well. Do not miss any doses. If Catapres is not taken regularly, your condition may get worse.The Catapres patch should be applied to either the outer part of your arm or to your chest area. The spot where the patch is applied should be hairless and not contain any cuts or bruises. The patch should be worn for 7 days and then taken off and replaced with a new patch. The new patch should not be applied to the same exact spot.
If the patch becomes loose, use the adhesive cover that is included with the Catapres system and place it directly over the Catapres patch to help keep the patch in place.
If you are using another blood pressure medication, do not stop taking it abruptly when you first begin using the patch, because the patch may take a few days to begin working. The other medication should be discontinued slowly as the patch begins to take effect.
What should I avoid while taking Catapres?
Do not stop taking Catapres suddenly. Headache, nervousness, agitation, tremor, confusion, and rapid rise in blood pressure can occur. Your doctor should gradually reduce your dose over several days to avoid withdrawal symptoms.Catapres may cause you to become tired. Until you know how this drug affects you, use caution while engaging in potentially hazardous activities (such as driving or operating machinery). Also, avoid alcohol or drugs that may cause drowsiness (such as sedatives).
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Catapres?
If Catapres is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Catapres with the following: alcohol; barbiturates; other blood pressure medications, such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers; digitalis; sedatives; and certain antidepressants.What are the possible side effects of Catapres?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: For tablets: dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, sedation
For the patch: change in taste, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth/throat, fatigue, headache, impotence, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, rash, sedation, skin reactions at the treatment site (redness, itchiness, blistering, skin darkening, swelling, burning)
Can I receive Catapres if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Catapres during pregnancy are not completely known. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before beginning therapy with Catapres.Catapres is found in breast milk. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding before beginning therapy with Catapres.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Catapres?
If you forget to take a Catapres tablet, take the tablet as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.Contact your doctor if you have missed applying the Catapres patch at the appropriate time.
How should I store Catapres?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
