What is Clonidine (Catapres) Used For?
Hypertension is a prevalent illness that, if not treated promptly, can have disastrous effects on the brain, kidneys, blood vessels, and heart, among other organs. These remarkable effects can cause irreversible responses, for example, coronary episodes, cardiovascular breakdown, loss of vision, kidney failure, etc.
Clonidine (Catapres) is a well-known centrally acting alpha-agonist hypotensive drug that lowers blood pressure by slowing the heart rate or expanding veins. Through this, blood can undoubtedly stream with no strain. It is being increasingly used among pediatric patients to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourette syndrome, and insomnia.
Clonidine (Catapres) has sedative, analgesic, and potentially anxiolytic qualities besides its antihypertensive activities. As a result, it is frequently used off-label as an adjunctive treatment for multiple psychiatric diseases, including Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and Tourette syndrome, besides its authorized indications.
How to Use Clonidine (Catapres)?
- Take Clonidine (Catapres) as your expert recommended it. Follow the directions on the prescription or medicine label correctly.
- Try not to take more or less than the suggested dose, and don’t use it for longer than the recommended period.
- Clonidine (Catapres) is prescribed to take twice daily in the mornings and at night.
- Clonidine (Catapres) can be taken with or without food.
- Don’t break, bite or crush the extended-release tablets as it will alter the delivery of the drug.
- Complete the course suggested by your primary care physician. Do not abruptly stop taking Clonidine (Catapres) as this may lead to rebound hypertension and other discontinuation symptoms.
Clonidine (Catapres) Dosage and Forms
As a transdermal patch (extended-release)
- There are three doses available: 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg, and 0.3 mg per day.
- Replace the patch every seven days as a precaution.
- To treat hypertension as a smoking cessation therapy and in the treatment of opioid withdrawal.
As An Immediate Release Tablet
- Available Dosage: 0.1 mg
- This medication is used to treat alcohol withdrawal, smoking cessation, ADHD, Tourette syndrome, and psychosis.
As An Injection Solution
- It comes in two different injectable solution volumes: 100 mcg/ml and 500 mcg/ml.
- It is utilized as an adjuvant in anesthesia and as an epidural infusion in managing cancer pain that is not controlled by opioid analgesics.
- The doctor recommends a 30 mcg/hr starting dose for treating pain or potentially adverse consequences.
What Should I Do If I Forget To Take A Dose?
As soon as you recall, take your missed dose. If the subsequent dosage is approaching, skip the missing dose and return to your current dosing plan. Try not to take a twofold quantity to compensate for a missed one.
Clonidine (Catapres) Side effects
Clonidine (Catapres), like any other medicine, can have both short and long-term unfavorable outcomes. According to FDA (Food and Drug Administration) studies, the following are some of the most prevalent adverse effects:
Common Side Effects of Clonidine (Catapres)
- Hypotension
- Weariness
- Nausea
- Neuralgia
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Vomiting
- Insomnia
- Irritability in mood
Serious Side Effects of Clonidine (Catapres)
- Allergic reactions (rash/itching)
- Angioedema (swelling of face, throat, lips, eyes, and lower legs)
- Difficulty in breathing
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Severe chest pain
- Hoarseness (raspy voice sounds)
Clonidine (Catapres) Drug-Drug Interactions
Drug interactions can cause your prescriptions to perform differently or put you at risk for dangerous adverse effects. Drug interactions with Clonidine (Catapres), include
- Marijuana (cannabis)
- Antihistamines (anti-allergic drugs)
- Anxiolytic agents (Diazepam, Alprazolam)
- Codeine
- NSAID’s (Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
Keep in mind, keep this and any remaining meds out of the range of kids, never share your meds with others, and use Clonidine (Catapres) as directed.
If you’re not sure if the information in this article relates to your situation, talk to your psychiatrist, or a trusted advisor.
