Notice: Images are for illustration only and may not reflect the exact product you receive. Brand-name medications may look different depending on their country of origin—Canadian versions, for example, often include a "PR" symbol on the packaging. Rest assured, the medication, dosage, and active ingredients will be exactly as prescribed. Canada Pharmacy Store is committed to your health and safety, and we work only with licensed pharmacies to ensure you receive trusted, high-quality medication every time.
General Medication Fact Sheet for Catapres
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Catapres |
| Generic Name | Clonidine |
| Boxed/Label Warning | None |
| Purpose | Treat hypertension (high blood pressure) |
| Mechanism of Action | Stimulates alpha2-adrenergic receptors in the brain, reducing sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets, Transdermal patch |
| Available Strengths | Oral Tablets: 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg, 0.3 mg; Transdermal Patch: 0.1 mg/day, 0.2 mg/day, 0.3 mg/day |
| Dosage Frequency | Oral: Typically twice daily; Patch: Applied every 7 days |
| Common Side Effects | Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation |
| Serious Side Effects | Slow heart rate, low blood pressure, rebound hypertension (if stopped suddenly), severe allergic reaction |
| Drug Interactions | Other antihypertensives, beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, alcohol, sedatives |
| Important Notes | Do not stop taking Catapres suddenly; consult your doctor for gradual dose reduction to avoid rebound hypertension. May cause drowsiness; use caution when driving or operating machinery. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. Keep the patch in its original packaging until use. |
| Missed Dose | If using oral tablets, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose. For the patch, apply a new patch as soon as you remember and change it on your regular schedule. |
| Alternatives | Lisinopril, Amlodipine, Metoprolol, Hydrochlorothiazide |
Catapres Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lisinopril | ACE inhibitor | Helps relax blood vessels by blocking the production of angiotensin II. |
| Amlodipine | Calcium channel blocker | Relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow. |
| Metoprolol | Beta-blocker | Slows heart rate and reduces the heart’s workload. |
| Hydrochlorothiazide | Thiazide diuretic | Helps the body get rid of excess salt and water, lowering blood pressure. |
Catapres Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Drowsiness | Slow heart rate (bradycardia) |
| Dizziness | Low blood pressure (hypotension) |
| Dry mouth | Rebound hypertension (if stopped suddenly) |
| Constipation | Severe allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Headache | Depression |
Catapres Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hypertension (Oral) | 0.1 mg twice daily | 0.2 mg to 0.6 mg daily, divided into two or three doses | Adjust dosage gradually based on blood pressure response. |
| Hypertension (Patch) | 0.1 mg/day, applied weekly | 0.1 mg/day to 0.3 mg/day, applied weekly | Apply to a hairless area of skin on the upper arm or torso. Rotate application sites. |
Catapres Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $5 – $25 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $200 – $350 |
| From Canada | $63.65 |
