Clonidine patch

Clonidine patches come in different strengths. The patch is usually replaced once a week.

• The dose of clonidine will be different for different people depending on why it's being used and your response to treatment.
• Your doctor may start you on a low dose and increase it slowly over a few weeks. 
• It may take several weeks for the full beneficial effects to be seen.
• Always apply clonidine patch exactly as your doctor has told you. It is important not to stop taking clonidine suddenly.

Ask your pharmacist to explain how to use your patch. Here is some guidance:

• Apply the patch to a clean, dry area of skin on your upper outer arm or chest. Choose an area with little or no hair and free of scars, cuts, or irritation.
• Don't try to trim or cut the adhesive patch to adjust the dosage, unless you have been advised to by your doctor.
• The patch should stay in place even during showering, bathing, or swimming. If the patch becomes loose, cover it with the extra adhesive overlay provided. If a patch comes off, replace it with a new one as soon as possible.
• Try to change your patch at the same time and day of the week. If you are more than 3 days late changing your patch, tell your doctor right away.
• Each patch should be applied to a different area of skin to prevent skin irritation.
• Remove the used patch when a new one is applied. 
• After removing a used patch, fold it in half with the sticky sides together. Make sure you dispose of it out of the reach of children or pets.

Here are some things to know when you're taking clonidine. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

• This medicine may make you sleepy. Avoid driving and doing other tasks or actions that call for you to be alert until you see how this medicine affects you. Drinking alcohol can make these symptoms worse. 
• Clonidine can interact with some medications, herbal supplements and rongoā Māori, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting clonidine and before starting any new products.
• Some procedures (eg, an MRI scan) may overheat the patch and burn your skin. Discuss this with your health professional before your procedure.
• If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.
• Don't stop using clonidine patches suddenly; talk to your doctor before stopping.
• Store your clonidine patches safely where young children can't reach them.

Like all medicines, clonidine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects go away once your body gets used to the new medicine.