What it means
A centrally acting alpha-2 agonist. By calming the sympathetic nervous system, it lowers blood pressure and heart rate. It is used for high blood pressure, ADHD (extended-release form), and sometimes to ease withdrawal symptoms; an epidural form is used for severe cancer pain. It comes as tablets, a weekly skin patch and an injection. Dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness and constipation are common.
For the nurse
Check blood pressure and pulse before giving. Teach the client never to stop it suddenly, because blood pressure can rebound to dangerous levels, and to rise slowly. Rotate patch sites and remove the old patch. Do not confuse it with clonazepam or clozapine.
At a glance
| Drug class | centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist (antihypertensive) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Catapres, Catapres-TTS, Duraclon |
| Spanish | clonidina |
| Also written | Catapres, Catapres-TTS, Duraclon |
Easy to confuse with
clonazepam
A long-acting benzodiazepine drug used for seizure disorders and panic disorder.
clozapine
An atypical antipsychotic drug used for schizophrenia when other antipsychotics have not worked.
Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
autonomic nervous system
The part of the nervous system that controls body functions without conscious thought, such as heart rate, breathing and digestion.