Hydroxyzine is used for treatment of anxiety and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal in adults. It is also used to relieve the itching caused by allergies and to control the nausea and vomiting caused by various conditions, including motion sickness in adults and children.
How it works
Hydroxyzine belongs to the group of medicines called antihistamines with antimuscarinic and sedative properties. It acts by inhibiting histamine receptor-mediated reactions, such as vasodilation, flare and itch reactions and sneezing.
Common side effects
incoordination, psychomotor impairment and antimuscarinic effects., Dry mouth, effects vary from slight drowsiness to deep sleep, CNS depression, dizziness, and include lassitude, headache
Expert advice
• Do not start or continue the hydroxyzine tablets, if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to hydroxyzine or any of the other ingredients of hydroxyzine tablet.
•The drug can cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not take hydroxyzine with other medicines that cause drowsiness like other antihistamines, pain or sleep medications or alcohol.
•Stop using hydroxyzine and call your doctor immediately, if you have a serious side effect such as tremors, confusion, seizures, or restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck.
•Do not use hydroxyzine without telling your doctor, if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Frequently asked questions
Hydroxyzine
Q. Is hydroxyzine safe during pregnancy?
No, it is not safe during pregnancy. Patients should follow the advice of the doctor regarding its use.
Q. Is hydroxyzine a controlled substance/ over the counter (OTC)?
No, it is not controlled substance. It is available with doctor’s prescription only.
Q. Can I take hydroxyzine for allergies/ pain/ anxiety/ cold?
Hydroxyzine is specifically used for the management of anxiety, itching due to allergies.Patients should follow the advice of the doctor regarding its use.
Q. How much hydroxyzine can I take for anxiety/for sleep?
Patient should take hydroxyzine for prescribed dose and duration as advised by doctor.
Q. Does hydroxyzine lower blood pressure /raise blood pressure/ make you tired/ make you gain weight/ get you high/ hair loss/ drowsiness?
Hydroxyzine causing these side effects is rare or uncommon; however consult your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.
