Atarax Tablet: Uses, Side Effects, and Dosage

Atarax is a prescription antihistamine used to relieve itching from allergies and anxiety, and promote sedation before or after surgery. It belongs to the first-generation antihistamines, specifically the piperazine derivatives class.

What Are the Uses of Atarax Tablet?

Atarax is commonly used for allergies, anxiety, and as a sedative before surgeries to help manage physical and mental discomfort.

• Hydroxyzine (Atarax) is an antihistamine utilised to alleviate itching caused by allergies.
• It functions by blocking the natural substance histamine produced during allergic reactions.
• Additionally, it may be prescribed short-term for anxiety management.
• Hydroxyzine can also help induce relaxation or drowsiness before or after surgery.
• It may improve sleep in certain conditions.

How Does Atarax Work (Mechanism of Action)?

Atarax works by blocking histamine, a substance responsible for allergy symptoms, and calming brain activity to reduce anxiety and induce sleep.

• It is a first-generation antihistamine (hydroxyzine) from the piperazine group.
• It blocks the effects of histamine in the body.
• Also acts on the central nervous system to reduce anxiety and induce drowsiness.
• Helps regulate overactive nerves that cause itching or restlessness

Dosage of Atarax Tablet

Atarax (Hydroxyzine) is available in the following dosage forms:

• Tablet: Common strengths: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg
• Syrup/Solution (Oral Liquid): Usually in 10 mg/5 mL concentration
• Injection: For intramuscular (IM) use only, available in 25 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL

Follow your doctor's instructions carefully to get the correct dose. Dosage may based on age, weight, and health, as well as reaction to therapy; it may also be adjusted for children depending on their weight.

How to use Atarax Tablet

• As prescribed by your physician, take this drug orally three to four times a day, with or without meals.
• If using the liquid form, use a specialised measuring device to ensure accurate dosage. Avoid using household spoons to prevent dosage errors.
• Follow your doctor's instructions strictly, do not alter the dosage frequency. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Atarax?

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one.
• Don't double it.

What Happens If I Overdose on Atarax?

Overdosing on Atarax can be dangerous. Seek immediate medical help if you notice the following symptoms:

• Severe drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Confusion or hallucinations
• Loss of consciousness

In case of overdose or serious symptoms, visit our hospitals for timely and safe care.

What Are the Side Effects of Atarax Tablet?

While Atarax is effective, it may cause side effects ranging from mild drowsiness to serious allergic reactions in rare cases.

Common side effects

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Rashes
• Blurred vision

Serious but rare side effects

• Mood changes (restlessness, confusion)
• Hallucinations
• Shaking or tremors
• Difficulty urinating
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Severe allergic reactions (rashes, swelling, itching)

Seek medical help if any symptoms persist or worsen.

Precautions Before Taking Atarax

• If you have any other allergies or hydroxyzine, cetirizine, or levocetirizine allergies, let your doctor or pharmacist know.
• Discuss your medical history, particularly breathing problems, eye pressure, blood pressure, kidney or liver issues, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems, thyroid issues, or difficulty urinating.
• Hydroxyzine may cause QT prolongation, leading to severe heart rhythm disturbances, especially if you have certain medical conditions or are taking medications that can prolong QT.
• This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Alcohol can worsen these effects.
• Liquid forms may contain sugar or alcohol; caution is needed if you have diabetes or liver disease.
• Children may be more sensitive to the serious side effects of this drug and may experience excitement instead of drowsiness.
• The risk of falls may increase in older persons due to their increased sensitivity to side effects such as disorientation, constipation, sleepiness, and problems urinating.
• Consult a doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of using during pregnancy. Use only when absolutely required.
• It's unclear if this medication enters breast milk, so check with your doctor before nursing.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

Talk to our General Physician doctors about all the medicines you're taking to avoid drug interactions and unwanted side effects.

• Atarax may interact with sedatives, antidepressants, or medications that prolong QT interval.
• May enhance drowsiness when taken with alcohol, sleeping pills, or muscle relaxants.
• Check with your doctor before using with herbal or OTC supplements.

How Should Atarax Be Stored?

Proper storage ensures the effectiveness and safety of your medication for the intended duration.

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep the liquid form tightly closed and in the original bottle.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep away from children and pets.

Improper storage may reduce effectiveness and could cause the medication to degrade or become unsafe to use.

Atarax vs Zyrtec

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