Clonidine

Blood pressure

Also known as Catapres

Clonidine works in your brain, quieting the nerve signals that tighten blood vessels and speed up your heart — so your blood pressure comes down. It's known for making people sleepy, which is why many doctors have you take it (or the larger dose) at bedtime. The single most important thing to know: this is not a medicine you ever stop cold.

How to take it

When

Often taken at bedtime because it causes drowsiness. Take it at the same times every day.

Food

Food doesn't matter — take it with or without.

Avoid

Never stop suddenly. Quitting cold can send your blood pressure spiking dangerously within a day or two. Always taper with your doctor.

Good to know

Alcohol and other sedatives pile onto the drowsiness. Be careful driving until you know how it hits you.

Missed a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, unless your next dose is close — then skip it. If you miss several doses, call your doctor — that can cause a dangerous blood pressure rebound. Never double up.

Common side effects

Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Constipation
Tiredness

Call a doctor if

You stopped taking it and now have a pounding heart, headache, shakiness, or soaring blood pressure — get help now
Fainting or a very slow heartbeat — get help now
Confusion or extreme, hard-to-wake drowsiness
Swelling of your face or trouble breathing — call emergency services

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.