Key takeaways
Clonidine (Catapres-TTS, Nexiclon XR) and captopril (Capoten) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different medication classes. Clonidine is an alpha agonist that works by lowering the activity of stress hormones in the brain, while captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that relaxes blood vessels by blocking a specific protein. Clonidine is available in oral and topical forms, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and patches, whereas captopril is only available as an oral tablet. Clonidine is not a first-choice medication for high blood pressure due to the risk of rebound hypertension if stopped suddenly, while captopril is often a first-choice option. Captopril is also used for heart failure, improving survival after a heart attack, and preventing kidney problems in people with diabetes, which are not indications for clonidine. Clonidine can cause side effects like dry mouth and drowsiness, while captopril may lead to a dry cough and changes in taste. Additionally, captopril can interact with NSAIDs and certain antidepressants, whereas clonidine can interact with other blood pressure or mood medications.
