Active Ingredients: Hydroxyzine (hye DROX ee zeen)
Typical Brand Names: Atarax, Rezine, Vistaril
What Is It Used For?
Atarax blocks the effects of the naturally occurring chemical
histamine in your body. This makes hydroxyzine useful for treating
allergic conditions, especially those that involve the skin, such
as hives, itching, and rashes. It may also increase the effects
of other medicines, such as pain relievers and sedatives, so it
is useful after surgery also. It is also used for many other purposes
other than those listed in medication guides.
How Is It Used?
Atarax is prescribed as 50-100 mg daily(for adults); and 50 mg
daily (for children below 6 years) in divided doses and over 6
years, 50-100 mg daily in divided doses. Each dose should be taken
with a full glass of water.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Atarax should be avoided if you experience an allergic reaction
(difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your
lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Less serious side effects like: drowsiness, headache, nausea,
sleepiness, confusion, blurred mouth, or vomiting. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.
Is It Safe?
It is not known that Atarax are the best drugs to be prescribed
during pregnancy. Babies exposed to Atarax during the third trimester
of pregnancy may develop medical complications. Atarax passes
into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. It is advised
not to take this medication without first talking to your doctor
if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment
or if you are breast-feeding a baby. Your doctor may prescribe
a lower dose of this medication.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Inform your doctor before consuming Atarax if you are using other
antihistamines, such as brompheniramine, chlorpheniramine, and
many others; narcotics (pain killers); sedatives or antidepressants.
Talk to your doctor before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter
medicines with Atarax.
What If I Miss A Dose?
If you have missed any dose, use it as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose (within
2 hours.), skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed.
Do not use a double dose of this medication. And try to keep your
doses at least 4 hours apart.
How Should It Be Stored?
Atarax should be kept at room temperature and away from moisture
and heat. Keep out of the reach of children in a container that
small children cannot open. Throw away any unused medicine after
the expiration date.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Use prudence when driving, operating machinery, or performing
other hazardous activities. Hydroxyzine may cause dizziness or
drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these
activities. Even use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase
drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking hydroxyzine.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
