Catapres-TTS-1

The dosage of Catapres-TTS-1 depends on the severity of hypertension and the patient’s response to treatment:

• Catapres-TTS-1 patch delivers 0.1 mg of clonidine per day and is applied once every 7 days.
• Catapres-TTS-2 patch delivers 0.2 mg of clonidine per day.
• Catapres-TTS-3 patch delivers 0.3 mg of clonidine per day.

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• The dose is decided by the healthcare provider based on individual conditions.

Catapres-TTS-1 is contraindicated in patients with:

• Hypersensitivity to clonidine or any component of the patch.
• Severe bradycardia (slow heart rate) or conditions where a further reduction in heart rate could be dangerous.

Patients using Catapres-TTS-1 should be advised to:

• Apply the patch to a new skin site with each application to avoid skin irritation.
• Make sure the patch is securely attached and replace it every 7 days as directed.
• Avoid abruptly discontinuing the patch, as this can cause a dangerous rebound increase in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis). Tapering the dose under medical supervision is necessary when stopping treatment.
• Be cautious of side effects like dizziness or drowsiness, especially when starting the medication, as clonidine can lower blood pressure too much or cause sedation.
• Avoid alcohol or sedative medications, as these can increase the sedative effects of clonidine.

• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up (orthostatic hypotension)
• Skin irritation or redness at the application site

• Severe Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate): Symptoms include dizziness, fainting, or fatigue.
• Rebound Hypertension: If the patch is discontinued abruptly, blood pressure may rise significantly.
• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Rebound Hypertension: Abrupt discontinuation of clonidine can lead to a rapid and dangerous increase in blood pressure. If Catapres-TTS-1 needs to be stopped, it should be tapered gradually under medical supervision.

Sedation and Drowsiness: Clonidine can cause drowsiness, especially when initiating therapy or increasing the dose. Patients should avoid activities that require full alertness, such as driving until they know how the medication affects them.

Hypotension and Bradycardia: Clonidine can cause a significant drop in blood pressure and heart rate. Patients should be monitored for signs of hypotension (low blood pressure) and bradycardia (slow heart rate), especially when starting therapy or adjusting doses.

Catapres-TTS-1 may interact with other medications, including:

• Other Antihypertensive Agents: Combining clonidine with other medications that lower blood pressure, such as beta-blockers or diuretics, can increase the risk of hypotension and bradycardia.
• Sedatives and Alcohol: These substances can increase the sedative effects of clonidine, causing excessive drowsiness.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants: These medications may reduce the effectiveness of clonidine by counteracting its blood pressure-lowering effects.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alternative treatments for hypertension include:

• Other Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonists: Such as guanfacine, which has similar effects to clonidine.
• Beta-blockers: Such as metoprolol or atenolol, lower blood pressure by reducing heart rate.
• Calcium Channel Blockers: Such as amlodipine or verapamil, which relaxes blood vessels and reduces blood pressure.
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors: Such as lisinopril, are used for blood pressure control.
• Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs): Such as losartan or valsartan.