Clonidine 0.2mg

Alpha2-Adrenergic Agonist; Antihypertensive

CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship  

The primary mechanism of Clonidine, Catapres/Duraclon/Kapvay is its alpha agonist activity in the brainstem which reduces sympathetic outflow to the central nervous system producing a decrease in peripheral resistance, renal vascular resistance, heart rate, and blood pressure.  Clonidine, Catapres/Duraclon/Kapvay also exhibits analgesia properties by inhibiting nociceptive transmission along innervated spinal segments.

Vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause, hypertension, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Before starting Clonidine, Catapres/Duraclon/Kapvay make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take.  Due to its alpha agonist activity, some patients may experience bradycardia, CNS depression (i.e. sedation, drowsiness) and hypotension/syncope.

Oral: 0.2mg to 0.6mg daily in 2 divided doses.  

Transdermal Patch:  Apply 0.1mg/24-hour to 0.3mg/24-hour patch once very 7 days.

Note: Safety: Do not discontinue therapy abruptly. When discontinuing, taper gradually to decrease risk of withdrawal symptoms (i.e. rebound hypertension).

How to Take: 

Oral: May be taken with or without food.  Swallow whole with water.

Transdermal Patch:  Patches should be applied weekly at a consistent time to a clean, hairless area of the upper outer arm or chest. Rotate patch sites weekly. Redness under patch may be reduced if a topical corticosteroid spray is applied to the area before placement of the patch. Dispose of any used or unused patches by folding adhesive ends together, replace in pouch or sealed container, and discard properly in trash away from children and pets.

Drowsiness, headache, fatigue, dizziness, skin rash, contact dermatitis, xerostomia, upper abdominal pain.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Clonidine, Catapres/Duraclon/Kapvay only common ones.

1. Why am I so tired since starting Clonidine?
   It is a common side effect that is not harmful and after 2 weeks or so it should subside as your body adjusts to the medication.  It is important to try and give the medication at least 2 weeks if fatigue is an issue as it usually will resolve.  If side effects are intolerable speak to your physician, do not discontinue medication without their consent as this can be a vital medication to take for many conditions.