Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Catapres as follows: Catapres is partially metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of Catapres can be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, Catapres must be used with caution in individuals with compromised liver function, with periodical monitoring for liver functions [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Catapres as follows: Catapres carries the risk of lowering the heart rate and so, must be used with extreme caution in individuals with history of bradycardia. Individuals with history of compromised function of the pacemakers of the heart (SA and AV nodes), can present with further compromise of the pacemaker function, secondary to Catapres use. This can lead to episodes of severely low heart rate and may even [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Catapres as follows: Do not take Catapres, if you ever manifested any allergic response to intake of Catapres. Discuss your history of allergic response to this medication with your physician, without fail. In the event of any current manifestations of any allergic response with this medication, report it to your physician or other health care personnel immediately, to check regarding your safety with continuing on intake of this [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Catapres as follows: Gastrointestinal side-effects                                                                                                             Catapres use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting, especially when taken on empty stomach. Taking dose of Catapres with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication. Catapres use can induce extreme dry mouth and constipation. Sucking on ice chip or a sugar [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Catapres as follows: Central nervous system side-effects                               The bradycardia and hypotension caused by Catapres can lead to episodes of confusion and dizziness, thus increasing the risk for fall and accidents. Starting the medication at a low dose, watching for the response, and gradually changing the dose, to help optimum control of your symptoms, can contribute to controlling/reducing the risk for drowsiness and dizziness due to the medication. [...]