Brand-name Catapres is made by Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Generic forms of this medication are made by various manufacturers.
Catapres belongs to a group of medications known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. It works by stimulating alpha-2 receptors in the brainstem. This causes a decrease in both
blood pressure and heart rate. There is also some evidence that Catapres may decrease certain substances (such as renin or aldosterone) in the body, an action that might also contribute to decreased blood pressure.
When and How to Take Catapres
Some general considerations for those taking Catapres include the following:
- Catapres comes in tablet or patch form (this article applies only to the tablet form). It is usually taken by mouth twice a day.
- You can take it either with a meal or on an empty stomach.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Catapres will not work if you stop taking it.
- In general, this medication should not be stopped suddenly, as serious problems may result.
The dose of Catapres your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The severity of your high blood pressure
- Your age
- How you respond to the drug
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you have.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Just like any medicine, Catapres may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Most people actually tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the most commonly reported problems include but are not limited to:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness.
(Click Catapres Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Catapres if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
An overdose with this medication may be dangerous. If you happen to take too much Catapres, seek medical attention right away.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a Catapres dose, take the missed one as soon as you remember. However, if it almost time for your next dose, simply skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Keep this medication at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Be sure to keep Catapres out of the reach of children.
Catapres tablets come in the following strengths:
- Catapres 0.1 mg
- Catapres 0.2 mg
- Catapres 0.3 mg.
