GENERIC NAME: Clonidine hydrochloride BRAND NAME: Catapres DRUG CLASS: PHARMACODYNAMICS: Inhibits central vasomotor centers, thereby

decreasing sympathericout flow DOSAGE: 01-02 mg P.O B. INDICATIONS: Essential renal and malignant hypertension CONTRAINDICATIONS: Patient hypersensitive to clonidine ADVERSE EFFECTS: drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, sedation, nervousness, headache, orthostatichypotension, bradycardia, urine retention, impotence, transient glucose intolerance (after largedose), constipation, pruritis dermatitis NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES: Monitor blood pressure and pulse rate. May be given rapidly lower blood pressure in some hypertensive emergencies. Rising slowly and avoid sudden position change to prevent orthostatichypotension. Remove patch before defribrillation to prevent arcing