Catapres
Catapres is a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It works by stimulating alpha-2 receptors in the brain stem, which reduces sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system, leading to a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be individualized. The standard starting dose for adults with hypertension is 0.1 mg twice daily, adjusted weekly if necessary. Do not stop taking Catapres abruptly, as rapid discontinuation can lead to severe rebound hypertension.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in infants have not been established. Pediatric use requires strict specialist guidance.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Extremely rare pediatric indication. Must be managed by a pediatric specialist.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 0.025 mg to 0.05 mg
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Off-label pediatric dosing. Requires close cardiovascular monitoring by a physician.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 mg
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Adjusted slowly based on patient response and tolerability.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 mg to 0.1 mg
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Pediatric dosing for ADHD or hypertension must be titrated carefully to avoid sedation and bradycardia.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy in infants have not been established. Pediatric use requires strict specialist guidance. |
| 5-7 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Extremely rare pediatric indication. Must be managed by a pediatric specialist. |
| 8-10 kg | 0.025 mg to 0.05 mg | 1 to 2 times daily | Off-label pediatric dosing. Requires close cardiovascular monitoring by a physician. |
| 11-15 kg | 0.05 mg | 1 to 2 times daily | Adjusted slowly based on patient response and tolerability. |
| 16-20 kg | 0.05 mg to 0.1 mg | 1 to 2 times daily | Pediatric dosing for ADHD or hypertension must be titrated carefully to avoid sedation and bradycardia. |
Formulation
Purpose
Primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also used off-label for ADHD, anxiety, neuropathic pain, and managing withdrawal symptoms from opioids or alcohol.
Generic Name
ClonidineScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.