Catapres

How does it work?

Catapres tablets contain the active ingredient clonidine hydrochloride, which is a type of medicine called a centrally-acting antihypertensive. It is used to lower high blood pressure.

Clonidine works by stimulating alpha receptors in the brain. This action reduces the nerve signals that are sent from the brain to the blood vessels causing them to contract and narrow. As a result, the blood vessels are allowed to relax and widen. This increases the amount of space in the blood vessels and so decreases the pressure inside them. This lowers blood pressure.

Clonidine is usually only prescribed as an additional treatment for people whose blood pressure has not been lowered sufficiently with other medicines.

What is it used for?

High blood pressure

Warning!

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.

The effects of alcohol may be enhanced by this medicine.

You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine, unless your doctor tells you otherwise, as this may cause a rebound increase in your blood pressure and symptoms such as restlessness, palpitations, nervousness, tremor, headache and abdominal symptoms. When you stop treatment with this medicine, your dose should be reduced gradually. Follow the instruction given by your doctor.

Use with caution in

Narrowing of blood vessels in the extremities

Problems with blood circulation in the blood vessels in the hands, causing numb and painful fingers (Raynaud's disease)

Problems with blood circulation to the brain or heart

Heart failure

Slow heart rate

Decreased kidney function

Constipation

Disorders involving several nerves (polyneuropathy)

History of depression

Rare hereditary blood disorders called porphyrias

Not to be used in

Children

Very slow heart rate, as a result of problems with the electrical signals in the heart due to sick sinus syndrome or 2nd or 3rd degree heart block.

Rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption (Catapres tablets contain lactose).

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.

If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used during pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor and the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine passes into breast milk. It is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Do not stop taking this medication except on your doctor's advice.

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.

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