This belongs to the group of medicines known as antihypertensives.

Catapres 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 Catapres even if you feel fine. This is because high blood pressure can damage the heart, kidneys and other organs over time.

Catapres 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.

Why is this drug prescribed?

Catapres tablets contain the active ingredient clonidine hydrochloride, which is a type of drug called a centrally-acting antihypertensive. It is used to lower high blood pressure. Clonidine works by stimulating alpha receptors in the brain. This action reduces the nerve signals that are sent from the brain to the blood vessels causing them to contract and narrow. As a result, the blood vessels are allowed to relax and widen. This increases the amount of space in the blood vessels and so decreases the pressure inside them. This lowers blood pressure. Clonidine is usually only prescribed as an additional treatment for people whose blood pressure has not been lowered sufficiently with other drugs.

Treatments

* High blood pressure

What side effects can this drug cause?

* Dry mouth, nose or eyes * Drowsiness * Headache * Constipation * Nausea and vomiting * Slower than normal heart beat * Retention of water in the body tissues * Dizziness * Depression * Narrowing of the blood vessels in the hands leading to periods of white, painful hands * Pins and needles sensations in the hands and feet * Difficulty in sleeping or nightmares * Skin reactions such as rash or itching * Hallucinations * Confusion * Blurred vision * Decreased sex drive * Impotence