Type:
Medication
Catapres is the tradename for an alpha agonist, antihypertensive drug generically known as clonidine. This medication is sometimes confused with the anti-anxiety medication Klonopin. In Europe its commercial name is Drixarit®.
European studies have shown it effective in the prevention of migraines, especially in food-sensitive migraines. It can also help reduce symptoms for patients withdrawing from narcotics.
Unlike beta blockers, it can be used by patients with diabetes mellitus and asthma or other respiratory disorders The combined use of clonidine with tricyclic antidepressants may render clonidine ineffective. Side effects include low blood pressure and dizziness.
Catapres is available in oral tablets or a patch applied to the skin.
