Clonidine

About clonidine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antihypertensives.

Clonidine is used to treat high blood pressure and migraine.

Most people suffering from high blood pressure do not feel unwell, but it is important that high blood pressure is not left untreated and that you continue to take clonidine even if you feel fine. This is because high blood pressure can damage the heart, kidneys and other organs over time.

Clonidine is available in tablet and injection form.

It is also sometimes known as: Catapres or Dixarit. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking clonidine

Before taking clonidine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are suffering from constipation
• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast feeding
• if you suffer from heart or kidney problems
• if you suffer from circulation problems
• if you have ever suffered from depression
• if you suffer from porphyria
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription.

How to take clonidine

• Take clonidine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take clonidine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose of clonidine, take it as soon as you remember then continue as normal. Never take two doses at the same time to make up.
• Do not stop taking clonidine without consulting your doctor. If your doctor wishes you to stop taking clonidine, your dose will be reduced gradually. This will help to ensure that your blood pressure does not suddenly rise when you stop taking the medication.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of clonidine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• clonidine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Clonidine can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• Try to avoid alcohol whilst you are taking clonidine, as it will increase drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink it in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Clonidine can sometimes cause dizziness when getting up quickly from a sitting or lying position. Getting up slowly should help.
• Clonidine can cause a dry mouth. If you experience this try chewing sugar free gum, sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. If a dry mouth becomes too troublesome, discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Clonidine may make the inside of your nose and your eyes dry. If you wear contact lenses and this becomes troublesome tell your doctor.
• Clonidine is not generally recommended for children.

Can clonidine cause problems?

Along with their needed effects all medicines can cause unwanted symptoms. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome.

Dry mouth, drowsiness, fluid retention (swollen limbs), dizziness, disturbed sleep, skin rashes, feeling sick, constipation, headache, generally feeling unwell, reduced interest in sex, pins and needles, hair loss, changes in mood, confusion, problems with eyesight and Raynaud's Phenomenon (tingling and numbness of the fingers and sometimes toes in cold conditions).

If you experience any other worrying or troublesome symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist or doctor.

How to store clonidine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Either discard them safely out of the reach of children or contact your local pharmacist who will do this for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 14/02/2006