Clonidine (Catapres) Tips from Pharmacists

• If you have severe coronary artery disease or heart problems, tell your doctor. They may start you on a lower initial dose and increase your dose more slowly.

• Before applying a clonidine transdermal patch, wash and dry your hands well. Remove the adhesive backing from the patch. Apply the patch on clean, dry, hairless skin on the upper arm or upper chest. Wash your hands again to remove any residual medicine.

• You can wear the clonidine patch while bathing, showering, and swimming.

• If the transdermal patch worn on the skin comes loose, use the adhesive covering that is included with the patch.

• Clonidine transdermal patch contains aluminum which can cause skin burns during an MRI. Make sure you take the patch off before an MRI.

• Clonidine can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Do not drive a car or do any other hazardous activity until you know how this medication affects you.

• Tell all your healthcare providers you are on clonidine before any surgery. You may need to temporarily stop taking the medicine.