Catapres (clonidine) is an adrenergic agonist that inhibits the body's production of adrenaline. This action relaxes blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, and reduces strain on the heart. It is used in a wide range of conditions:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Insomnia
• Tourette's syndrome (to reduce tics)
• Withdrawal symptoms from opioids, nicotine, benzodiazepines, and alcohol
• Perimenopause/menopause
• Anxiety and related disorders
• Migraine headaches (reduces frequency and severity)
• Restless legs syndrome
• Bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other psychiatric disorders.
• Neuropathic pain, diabetic neuropathy pain, and other chronic pain

The medication is usually administered by tablet, but it is possible to buy Catapres in other formulations. In particular patients suffering from chronic pain may want to buy Catapres patches rather than tablets. A topical gel has recently been developed for pain as well, and some patients respond best to injections. In non-pain applications tablets usually suffice.

What to Expect from Catapres

Catapres is a very potent medication; its dosage is measured in micrograms (mcg) rather than milligrams (mg). While dosage and duration of treatment will ultimately depend on individual factors, there are similarities in most cases:

• Treatment usually starts with 200 mcg per day, divided into two smaller doses of 100 mcg taken in morning and 100 mcg taken in the evening.
• Dosage may be increased weekly in increments of 100 mcg if needed.
• If dosage is uneven, the larger dose should be taken in the evening. For example, if taking 300 mcg per day, take 100 mcg in the morning and 200 mcg in the evening.
• Most patients find daily doses of 200 mcg to 600 mcg sufficient; it is rare for dosage to exceed 600 mcg.
• Treatment may continue for as long as it provides benefit.
• If Catapres has been taken for more than a few weeks treatment should not end suddenly; dosage should be gradually reduced. Abruptly ending treatment can cause cardiovascular side effects.

In most conditions it takes around four weeks for full benefits to be felt, though many patients notice some improvement much sooner. Much of the medication's effects are due to its adrenaline-inhibiting properties, but other effects---particularly those related to psychiatric disorders---aren't entirely understood. It does clearly provide benefit, however, in both clinic studies and real-word use:

• Lowers blood pressure and reduces strain on the heart
• Alleviates some types of pain
• Improves impulse control
• Promotes focus and clarity of mind
• Reduces physical symptoms associated with anxiety and similar conditions, such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, trembling voice, hypervigilance, and so forth

There are many medications that also do the above; another reason patients may prefer to buy Catapres over other options is the reduced likelihood of addiction. While some individuals do become dependent on Catapres it is much less likely to happen than with opioids, amphetamines and other widely-abused drugs used to manage pain and psychiatric issues.

Warnings & Adverse Effects

Some individuals are at greater risk of experiencing potentially serious side effects while using Catapres, particularly those who have:

• Any cardiovascular condition, such as heart rhythm disorders or heart disease
• Any history of heart attack or stroke
• Impaired kidney function

Patients with the above conditions may need adjusted doses and more careful monitoring for developing complications.

Similarly caution should be exercised if taking other medications with Catapres; double-check with a doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions if taking:

• Medications that induce drowsiness
• Any antipsychotic or antidepressant medications
• Any medications that influence blood pressure
• Any medications that influence heart rhythm

Most side effects are mild and often disappear as the body adjusts to treatment, including:

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes
• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness

Because Catapres lowers blood pressure regardless of what it's being taken for, it's not unusual to experience dizziness and lightheadedness at the start of treatment. The degree to which the medication causes drowsiness or sedation can also vary between individuals; use caution while driving or doing other potentially dangerous activities until effects are known.

When It Comes To Health We Deliver

Online since 2005, Kiwi Drug is New Zealand's oldest online pharmacy. Our mission has always been to provide affordable, hassle-free access to the medications our clients need to maintain a high quality of life. Catapres is certainly one such medication, with a proven track record of helping patients retain their health and independence over the decades since its introduction.

Patients will need a prescription to buy Catapres tablets. If you don't have one, our online doctor may be able to issue one; simply add the product to your cart and begin checkout. On the next screen you'll be asked some questions about your medical history and other medications being taken. The entire process takes just a few moments!

As mentioned above, patients planning to buy Catapres for pain management may have better results with Catapres patches. Note that you will need a prescription to buy Catapres patches as well, and our online doctor is unable to provide one for that product---you will need to send us one issued by your doctor.

Clients who have external prescriptions will be provided with information to get it to us upon completing checkout.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance with your order!