Vistaril (Hydroxyzine) is a type of allergy medicine that also helps you feel calm and relaxed. It is often used to reduce anxiety and stress, and sometimes, it is given before surgery along with other medicines to help with anesthesia. Vistaril can also help control nausea and vomiting, and it is used to treat skin allergies, such as hives or rashes. It is also available as a generic medicine.
What is Hydroxyzine?
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with both sedative and anti-anxiety properties. It comes in two forms: hydroxyzine hydrochloride and hydroxyzine pamoate. These forms are used interchangeably depending on the condition being treated. It works by affecting certain natural substances (histamine and serotonin) in the body and brain to reduce symptoms like itching, anxiety, and nausea.
What are the Benefits and Uses of Hydroxyzine?
Hydroxyzine provides relief in a variety of conditions. It is commonly used for:
Anxiety relief: Helps calm the nervous system and is often used for short-term management.
Allergic reactions: Effective in treating symptoms such as itching, hives, and rashes by blocking histamine.
Sleep aid: Prescribed occasionally to assist with falling and staying asleep.
Nausea and vomiting: Hydroxyzine is also used to treat nausea and vomiting. It is beneficial for patients who experience these symptoms as a side effect of other medications or medical treatments.
Preoperative sedation: Used to calm patients before surgery.
Hydroxyzine works by blocking histamine H1 receptors in the body, which reduces allergic reactions. It also affects neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, in the brain, helping to reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Unlike benzodiazepines, Hydroxyzine does not have the risk of dependence, making it a safer option for many patients.
Hydroxyzine Dosage
The dosage of Hydroxyzine depends on the patient's age, condition, and response to treatment. It is typically taken by mouth or injected as prescribed by a doctor for managing anxiety, allergies, or sleep disorders.
Hydroxyzine Pamoate: Usually given in capsule form, typical dosages include 50-100 mg taken 4 times daily for anxiety or 25 mg taken 3-4 times daily for allergies.
Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride: Available in tablets and as an intramuscular injection. Dosing is similar to pamoate form, depending on the use case.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one-do not take a double dose.
What Happens If an Overdose?
Symptoms of hydroxyzine overdose may include extreme drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and, in severe cases, seizures or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
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Hydroxyzine may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, or headache. Most side effects are mild, but if any become bothersome or severe, please consult your doctor.
Common Side Effects:
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Serious but Rare Side Effects:
Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Confusion, especially in older adults
Tremors
Consult your doctor if any symptoms persist or worsen.
Precautions and Warnings
Before taking Hydroxyzine, let your doctor know if you have heart issues, breathing problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Caution is also advised in older adults and people with liver or kidney problems.
Who Should Avoid: People allergic to Hydroxyzine or its components and pregnant or breastfeeding women unless advised by a doctor.
Caution: Those with liver or kidney problems, glaucoma, or a history of seizures.
Alcohol Interaction: Avoid alcohol as it enhances drowsiness.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Hydroxyzine?
Hydroxyzine may be prescribed to children, but dosing is adjusted. Elderly patients may need lower doses due to increased sensitivity.
Possible Interactions with Other Medications (Drug Interactions)
Hydroxyzine can interact with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as alcohol, sedatives, or antihistamines. Always inform your doctor about any other drugs or supplements you are taking.
Hydroxyzine may interact with:
Other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)
Antidepressants
Muscle relaxants
Herbal supplements with sedative properties (e.g., valerian root): Always inform your doctor of all medicines and supplements you're taking.
How Should Hydroxyzine Be Stored?
Storage Temperature: Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F).
Avoid: Moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
Keep Out of Reach: Always store safely away from children.
What Happens If Hydroxyzine Is Not Stored Properly?
Exposure to heat, moisture, or light can reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Expired or improperly stored Hydroxyzine should not be used.
Vistaril (hydroxyzine) is used to treat anxiety and tension. It is also prescribed to relieve itching caused by allergies and to induce sedation prior to medical procedures.
Atarax and Vistaril both contain hydroxyzine but are different formulations. Atarax is hydroxyzine hydrochloride, while Vistaril is hydroxyzine pamoate.
Vistaril can start working within 30 minutes to an hour for anxiety relief. Its calming effects may be felt relatively quickly compared to other medications.
No, Vistaril (hydroxyzine) and Benadryl (diphenhydramine) are different medications, although both are antihistamines. Vistaril is primarily used for anxiety and sedation, while Benadryl is used for allergy relief.
Hydroxyzine is not typically classified as a strong sleeping pill but can be effective for inducing sleep due to its sedative properties. It is more commonly used for anxiety and allergy-related symptoms.
Hydroxyzine is generally safe when used as prescribed, but it can cause side effects like drowsiness or dizziness. Always use it under medical supervision, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
You should avoid taking hydroxyzine with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants, as it can enhance drowsiness and impair coordination. Additionally, be cautious with other medications that may interact, including certain antidepressants and sedatives.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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