Catapres (Clonidine Hcl)

• Take Catapres twice daily, in the morning and at bedtime. 
• Take the larger dose of Catapres at bedtime if doses are unequal to decrease side effects. 
• Take Catapres by mouth with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider.   
• Use Catapres regularly to get the most benefit from it.  
• Take it at the same time each day to help you remember.  
• Continue taking this medication even if you feel well, as most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. 
• Consult your healthcare provider if the medication stops working well or if your blood pressure readings remain high or increase. 

• Do not suddenly stop Catapres, as it can lead to a severe rise in blood pressure and symptoms such as nervousness, restlessness, headaches, and tremors or shaking. 
• Do not stop taking Catapres without consulting your healthcare provider. 

Common Side Effects:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Sleep problems (insomnia) and nightmares

Serious Side Effects:

• Slow heart rate
• Low blood pressure
• Fainting
• Mood or mental changes (e.g., depression, hallucinations)
• Signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Catapres,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you:

• Have allergies to Catapres, including allergic reactions to Catapres patches.
• Have any other allergies.

Disclose your medical history, especially if you have:

• Kidney disease.
• Heart rhythm problems, such as slow/irregular heartbeat or a specific type of heart block (second- or third-degree atrioventricular block).

Catapres may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you feel safe doing so. Alcohol and marijuana can worsen these effects, so limit their consumption while taking this medication. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications (including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products) before any surgery. Catapres may cause dry eyes, so you may need to use wetting eye drops more frequently. Be cautious of increased risk of falls due to potential dizziness or drowsiness. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider, as Catapres should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and may have undesirable effects on a breastfeeding infant.