Moxonidine helps keep your blood pressure under control.
Take Moxonidine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Moxonidine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it suddenly as this may worsen your condition.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- other heart disease such as abnormal heart rhythm, heart failure (weakness and inability of the heart to pump blood), electrical impulse conduction disorder
- severe kidney disease
- severe liver disease
as Moxonidine may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- poor blood circulation disorder such as Raynaud's disease
- claudication (cramping muscle pain or numbness in the extremities)
- Parkinson's disease (disorder that affects movement of a person, causing symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement and impaired balance or walking)
- epilepsy (fits or seizures)
- glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
- depression
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Moxonidine is not meant for children younger than 16 years old.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my blood pressure?
Regular exercise will help lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health. Engage in physical activity (e.g. walking) at least 30 to 60 minutes on most days of the week. If you have not exercised for a long time, start with light exercises such as slow walks. Speak to your doctor about what type of exercise would be suitable for you. Regular exercise will also help you to maintain a healthy weight and this is important in helping you control your blood pressure.
Follow a healthy diet plan by eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. Reduce your intake of foods high in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Cutting down on deep-fried foods and using less salt when cooking can kick-start your healthy diet.
If you smoke, you should try to quit. Smoking is harmful to your blood pressure, heart and overall health. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about ways to kick your smoking habit.
Try to keep stress levels under control as stress will cause your blood pressure to go up.
Moxonidine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Dry mouth is a common side effect of this medicine. If you experience severe dry mouth, take some sweets, mints or chewing gum to help reduce the discomfort.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, weakness, nausea, difficulty sleeping, constipation and indigestion.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease
- medicines to treat depression e.g. imipramine, amitriptyline
- medicines for anxiety e.g. lorazepam
- medicines for sleep disorder
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Moxonidine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from moisture.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.