PRESCRIPTION INFORMATION
Catapres®
GENERIC NAME: Clonidine (HCL) Hydrochloride Tablets
Product Shelf Life: 24 Months
Storage Requirements: 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
0.1mg – White, oval, scored, convex, debossed “25” bisect “41” on one side and debossed “V” on the reverse side.
Side Effects
Dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, dry mouth, or constipation may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting, slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (such as irritability, depression).
Precautions
Before taking clonidine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it (including having a rash while using clonidine patches); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, heart rhythm problems (such as slow/irregular heartbeat, second- or third-degree atrioventricular block).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Contact lens wearers may need to use wetting eye drops since this medication can cause dry eyes.