Catapres

What is it?

An antihypertensive preparation, clonidine hydrochloride, produced in the form of tablets of 2 strengths and in ampoules for injection. White scored tablets contain either 0.1mg marked with maker's symbol and O1C over O1C or 0.3mg marked with maker's symbol and 03C over 03C. Also, CATAPRES INJECTION contains 0.15mg per ml in ampoules.

Medical Uses

Hypertension, hypertensive crisis (injection).

Dosage

Adults: tablets, 0.05 to 0.1mg 3 times each day, gradually increasing every second or third day. Injection, in accordance with specialist supervision.

Special Care

Breast-feeding, depression, peripheral vascular disease. Tablets should be stopped gradually especially if β-blockers are being withdrawn.

Avoid Use

Children.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Other antihypertensives, tricyclics, CNS depressants, α-blockers.

Known Side Effects

Dry mouth, oedema, drowsiness, dizziness.

Manufacturer

Boehringer Ingelheim.