| Common Brands | Catapres-TTS, Nexiclon XR |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Alpha agonist |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Catapres-TTS is the trade name for clonidine, which is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It comes specifically in a transdermal system, which is otherwise referred to as a patch. Catapres-TTS is prescribed primarily for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) but sometimes also for the withdrawal from opioids, ADHD, and anxiety. Unlike oral clonidine tablets, which require frequent dosing, Catapres-TTS is a patch that delivers a steady, controlled dose of the medication over the course of a week, providing a convenient option for patients who may have trouble remembering to take daily medications.
It helps decrease the side effects associated with oral, immediate-release medication, thus improving drug levels in the blood over time. It is available as a continuous patch used by patients requiring drug release all day, eliminating the hassle of swallowing tablets and pills.
Catapres-TTS is a patch that administers clonidine transdermally, meaning it delivers the drug through the skin. The patch is easy to use and is usually applied once a week. Here’s how to apply it:
Select a clean, dry, and hairless area of the skin on the upper arm or chest.
Press the patch onto the skin firmly to ensure it adheres well.
Do not apply the patch on the areas that may be rubbed or dislodged such as joints or tight clothing.
The patch should be replaced weekly with a new one.
Removal
After seven days, remove the patch and dispose of it by folding it in half for the adhesive to stick on itself. Place a new patch over another area so that it does not cause irritation at one application site.
It should be applied at almost the same time every week to have a consistent drug level in the body. No more than one patch must be used at a given time except for the prescription given by the doctor.
Catapres-TTS acts through action of the central nervous system; hence it affects the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors clonidine in its core structure, and causes central inhibition of the synthesis as well as release of neurotransmitter norepinephrine from nerve terminals of the sympathetic nervous activity to lower the blood pressure mainly by:
Decreased Heart Rate: Clonidine decreases the heart rate as it reduces the release of norepinephrine that further decreases the frequency and force of heartbeats.
Dilation of Blood Vessels: Inhibition of norepinephrine results in dilation of blood vessels, which further decreases the resistance in blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure.
Decreased Anxiety: Being a sedative, Catapres-TTS also helps in decreasing symptoms of anxiety and also helps in reducing withdrawal symptoms from opioids.
The transdermal patch ensures that clonidine is delivered in a controlled and constant release manner. This allows stable drug levels throughout the week, avoiding multiple doses.
Catapres-TTS is generally well tolerated, and it has the possibility of causing several side effects in some of the patients. The common ones include:
Drowsiness or Sedation: There is the sedative effect of Catapres-TTS, which causes drowsiness, affecting other daily activities.
Dry Mouth: This is a typical side effect of clonidine. Some users feel bothered by the dryness associated with clonidine medication.
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Clonidine may sometimes cause a blood pressure level to be too low, especially in cases of an overdose, or if the patch is applied and removed abruptly.
Constipation: Some patients complain of constipation during patch use.
Headache or Fatigue: Headache and fatigue are the common side effects that occur more frequently when the drug starts.
Serious side effects are infrequent but may include drowsiness, bradycardia, or severe hypotension. Any of these should be reported to a physician immediately.
Rebound Hypertension: Abrupt discontinuation of Catapres-TTS can result in a sudden rise in blood pressure. Patients should be advised on the proper discontinuation by their physician.
Heart Conditions: Patients with heart conditions, including low heart rate or heart block, should use Catapres-TTS with caution and under the supervision of their doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Catapres-TTS should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding, as clonidine can pass into breast milk.
Allergic Reactions: If you experience a rash, hives, or any other symptoms of an allergic reaction, remove the patch and consult your doctor.
Catapres-TTS, as with the other preparations of clonidine, may interact with certain drugs to possibly enhance its side effects or reduce the effectiveness of clonidine. The most important among these interactions include:
Antihypertensive Agents: The concomitant use of Catapres-TTS with other antihypertensive agents (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or beta-blockers) can result in severe hypotension. Patients should be observed closely for signs of hypotension.
CNS Depressants: Drugs that are CNS depressants, including alcohol, sedatives, and benzodiazepines, can increase the effects of clonidine, which may cause excessive somnolence, respiratory depression, or coma.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): TCAs (e.g. amitriptyline or nortriptyline) may decrease the effect of Catapres-TTS, since they may antagonize the central action of this drug.
Beta-Blockers: Catapres-TTS with beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) can cause bradycardia and aggravate hypotension. Cautious use of drugs of this combination should be sought under medical supervision.
Patients should tell their doctor all the medications they are currently taking, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements, to avoid dangerous interactions.
Hypertension: Begin with a 0.1 mg patch applied once a week. The dose may be titrated upward to a maximum of 0.3 mg per week according to response and tolerance.
Opioid Withdrawal: Start at 0.1 mg patch and titrate up as needed. Maximum dose is usually 0.3 mg/week.
ADHD: Typically start at 0.1 mg/day and administer once a week via the patch.
Catapres-TTS is available only on prescription from a doctor. Its dosage and application should always be followed as prescribed by your doctor to ensure that the treatment is effective and safe. Do not start or stop this medication without first consulting your doctor.
Catapres-TTS is a transdermal patch that delivers clonidine through the skin to help lower high blood pressure.
It releases clonidine steadily over several days, reducing nerve signals that tighten blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure.
The patch is typically changed every 7 days (once a week).
Apply the patch on a clean, dry, hairless area of the upper arm or chest, rotating sites each week.
Yes, the patch is waterproof and can be worn during swimming or showering.
Apply a new patch immediately to maintain the medication level, and use adhesive tape if needed.
No, do not cut the patch as it may affect the dose and delivery rate.
Side effects include skin irritation at the patch site, dry mouth, drowsiness, and dizziness.
Yes, some users experience redness, itching, or rash where the patch was applied.
It may take 2 to 3 days to reach effective blood levels and start lowering blood pressure.
Apply the missed patch as soon as possible and resume your regular schedule.
No, heat can increase drug absorption and risk overdose—avoid applying heat directly on the patch.
Consult your doctor before use if you have skin infections or conditions at the application site.
Use only under a doctor’s guidance, as risks to the fetus may exist.
Patch use in children is less common; follow your pediatrician’s advice.
Inform your doctor about all drugs, especially other blood pressure medicines, sedatives, or antidepressants.
Yes, sudden discontinuation can cause rebound hypertension. Always taper under medical supervision.
Fold the patch in half with the sticky sides together and dispose of it safely out of reach of children and pets.
No, use only one patch at a time unless directed by your healthcare provider.
Yes, it may cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid these activities until you know how the patch affects you.
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