Consumer information about the medication CLONIDINE - ORAL (Catapres), includes side effects, drug interactions, recommended dosages, and storage information. Read more about the prescription drug CLONIDINE - ORAL. Clonidine is also used and as an aid in smoking cessation therapy and to diagnose pheochromocytoma (a tumor that develops on a gland near the kidneys and may cause high blood pressure and fast heart rate). Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition. How to use Clonidine Hcl. Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (in the morning and at bedtime). Clonidine is the generic name of Catapres, a medication used to treat high blood pressure. Clonidine works by slowing down your heart rate and relaxing blood vessels. Clonidine, sold as the brand name Catapres among others, is a medication used to treat high blood pressure, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, drug withdrawal (alcohol, opioids, or smoking), menopausal flushing, diarrhea, and certain pain conditions. La clonidine est un médicament agoniste des récepteurs adrénergiques de type α2. Il diminue l'activation du système nerveux sympathique via un rétrocontrôle négatif central [2] Catapres® (clonidine hydrochloride) Oral Antihypertensive Tablets of 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mg , USP. DESCRIPTION. Catapres® (clonidine hydrochloride, USP) is a centrally acting alpha-agonist hypotensive agent available as tablets for oral administration in three dosage strengths: 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg and 0.3 mg. Clonidine (Catapres, Catapres-TTS) is an oral and topical (applied to the skin) medication prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension). Clonidine is a prescription medication. It’s available as a patch, an oral tablet, and an oral extended-release tablet. The form you use may depend on your condition. This is especially important for a child taking clonidine. If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.