Moxonidine

What it is

Moxonidine is a centrally acting antihypertensive. It stimulates imidazoline and alpha-2 receptors in the brainstem, which reduces the sympathetic outflow driving blood vessel tone, so blood pressure falls. It is used to treat high blood pressure.

Used for

• Hypertension

What to know while taking it

It can be taken with or without food. Drowsiness, sedation and a dry mouth are common, particularly early on and after any change, so caution is needed when driving or operating machinery, and alcohol and other sedating medicines add to the effect. Stopping it suddenly can allow blood pressure to rebound sharply, so it is never discontinued on one's own; any change is made gradually and under medical supervision.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if blood pressure readings climb after doses have been missed, or if drowsiness, dizziness on standing or slow pulse is severe enough to interfere with everyday activity.

Worth knowing

• Do not stop abruptly
• Causes drowsiness
• Care when driving