Clonidine (Catapres)

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About Clonidine (Catapres)

Clonidine (Catapres) is an alpha-adrenergic agonist. It has been considered to be of benefit in the treatment of Tourette’s Syndrome although the response rate is lower than that of either Haloperidol or Pimozide. Its use is sometimes advantageous due to the low incidence of side effects.

Clonidine lowers blood pressure by decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in your blood. This allows your blood vessels (veins and arteries) to relax (widen) and your heart to beat more slowly and easily.

Clonidine was synthesized in 1960s and was initially tested as a nasal decongestant. In the United States, clonidine was first used to treat hypertension although it has also been investigated for treatment of different neuropsychiatric disorders. Clonidine works on specific nerve cells in the brain that are responsible for lowering blood pressure, slowing heart rate, and decreasing the body’s reaction to the withdrawal of chemicals like alcohol, opiates, cocaine, and nicotine. Because of this, clonidine is often used to treat the symptoms of drug, alcohol, and nicotine withdrawal.

Usual Side Effects

Sleepiness
Rash (if patch is used)
Burning sensation (if patch is used)
Dry mouth
Lethargy

Dizziness
Mood changes
Constipation
Slowed movements

Rare Side Effects

Headache
Fever
Nervousness
Agitation
Mental depression

Insomnia
Weight gain
Blurred vision
Hallucinations

Dosages

Clonidine comes as a tablet to take by mouth and a patch to apply to the skin. The tablet usually is taken two or three times a day at evenly spaced intervals. The patch is applied to the skin every 7 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take clonidine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Clonidine and Tourette Syndrome

I have seen alot of poitive posts about clonidine. For alot of people it seems to take up to 6 weeks to start working. Also for some it seems to work great for about a month and then start to wear off.In alot of cases it seems to help alot with concentration which is a plus. Doctors seem to favor the patch as it avoid the highs and lows you get from the pills which can cause insomnia and sleepiness.

Personal expierence

None

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