Transdermal Clonidine in the Management of Mild Hypertension An effective and more convenient alternative to diuretics and/or P-blockers

In an open multicentre study, 62 mild hypertensives previously controlled by diuretics and/or /3-blockers were treated with once-weekly transdermal clonidine (equivalent to 100, 200 or 300 Jig/day) for 3 months, after titration to the optimal dose.

Mean seated and standing systolic and diastolic BPs fell in 50 patients (85%) to values not significantly different from those achieved with previous therapy. 78% were controlled on the 100 or 200 Jig/day doses. 53% had localised skin reactions causing 13% to withdraw. 83% of patients found the formulation more convenient than oral medication; 85% wanted to remain on this treatment.

Transdermal clonidine therefore appears to be well accepted by patients and potentially useful as an alternative to diuretics or beta-blockers in the management of mild hypertension. Lew1s GRJ New Zealand Medical Journal 100 711·713. 25 Nov 1987

0156-2703/87/1219-0009 j0$0 1. 00/0 © ADIS Press INPHARMA"' 19 December 1987 9