Catapres-TTS-3 (Transdermal)

Generic name:clonidine (transdermal route) [ KLOE-ni-deen ]
Drug class:Antiadrenergic agents, centrally acting

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 8, 2022.

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Catapres-TTS-1
• Catapres-TTS-2
• Catapres-TTS-3

Available Dosage Forms:

• Patch, Extended Release

Therapeutic Class: Antihypertensive

Pharmacologic Class: Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist

Uses for Catapres-TTS-3

Clonidine transdermal is used alone or together with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk for heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if the blood pressure is controlled.

Clonidine belongs to the class of medicines called antihypertensives. It works in the brain to change some of the nerve impulses. As a result, the blood vessels relax and blood passes through them more easily, which lowers blood pressure. When the blood pressure is lowered, the amount of blood and oxygen going to the heart is increased.

This medicine will not cure your high blood pressure, but it does help control it. Therefore, you must continue to use it as directed if you expect to lower your blood pressure and keep it down. You might have to take high blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before using Catapres-TTS-3

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of clonidine transdermal in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of clonidine transdermal in geriatric patients. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related heart or kidney problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving clonidine transdermal.

Breastfeeding

Studies suggest that this medication may alter milk production or composition. If an alternative to this medication is not prescribed, you should monitor the infant for side effects and adequate milk intake.

Interactions with medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines m...