home > drugs a-z list > catapres-tts (clonidine) drug center > catapres-tts (clonidine) drug - consumer side effects and precautions

To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use a saliva substitute.

If you notice mild skin redness or itching around the patch area before finishing the full 7 days of use, remove the patch and replace it with a new one on a new skin site. These effects seem to occur more frequently in patients who use the overlay cover. If the symptoms persist or worsen into a rash, consult your doctor promptly for further instructions to see if you need to remove the patch.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, depression.

A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: severe or persistent rash, severe or persistent itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using clonidine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

The patch should be removed before you have certain procedures (e.g., cardioversion, defibrillation) to correct heart conduction disorders. Consult your doctor for more information.

If you are going to have an MRI test, notify testing personnel that you are using this patch. Serious burns may occur during MRI tests because of the aluminum contained in these patches. It should be removed just before the MRI test or consult your doctor for specific instructions.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, heart disease (e.g., severe coronary insufficiency, conduction disorders, recent heart attack), depression, blood circulation disorders (e.g., Raynaud's disease).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position.

Contact lens wearers may need to use appropriate lubricating solutions if this medication causes dry eyes.

Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially dizziness.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.