How do central acting drugs work?
These drugs lower blood pressure by acting in the brain and central nervous system. They reduce the number of nerve signals telling the blood vessels to narrow, thus relaxing the arteries in the legs and arms.
Who should take central acting drugs?
Central acting drugs are not usually the first choice for treating high blood pressure since they do not lower blood pressure as well as other types of medicines and are more likely to have side effects. They are only used after other types of drugs have failed to control a person's blood pressure.
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Central Acting Drugs |
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Commonly prescribed brands: |
Clonidine |
Methyldopa |
Methyldopa chlorothiazide |
Methyldopa hydrochlorothiazide |
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Catapres TTS |
Aldomet |
Aldoclor |
Aldoril |
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How they are given: |
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What they are used for: |
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You should not be treated with them if: |
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Possible side effects: |
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Pregnancy/nursing: |
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What are the possible side effects of central acting drugs?
The most common side effects include dryness of the mouth and fatigue. Some patients cannot stand these side effects and may have to switch to another drug.
