Hydroxyzine is a prescription antihistamine medication used for various conditions. It is available in capsules, tablets, syrup, and suspension. It works by influencing specific receptors in the body and brain.
Common Therapeutic Uses
Hydroxyzine is prescribed for several medical conditions. It relieves itching (pruritus) from allergic skin reactions like chronic hives, eczema, or contact dermatitis by blocking histamine.
Beyond its antihistamine properties, hydroxyzine also exhibits anxiolytic effects. It manages anxiety and tension associated with psychoneuroses, and serves as an adjunctive treatment for anxiety in individuals with other medical conditions. It achieves this by decreasing brain activity, partly through interaction with serotonin and dopamine receptors.
Hydroxyzine is also utilized as a sedative, particularly before and after general anesthesia for surgical procedures. Its sedative properties stem from its central nervous system depressant activity and anticholinergic effects, which can also contribute to its anti-nausea effects by influencing the chemoreceptor trigger zone in the brain.
Dosage Guidelines and Considerations
A healthcare professional determines the appropriate dosage of hydroxyzine based on the specific condition, patient’s age, and individual response. Always follow the prescribed dosage and never alter it without medical guidance.
For managing anxiety, typical adult dosages may range from 50 mg to 100 mg up to four times daily, though starting doses are usually lower, such as 25 mg three or four times daily. For itching due to allergic conditions, adults might take 25 mg three to four times a day. For pre-surgical sedation, a common single adult dose can be 50 mg to 100 mg.
A 100 mg dose of hydroxyzine is a higher dosage, often reserved for more severe anxiety or single-dose pre-operative sedation. It is not a common starting dose. Dosages are often gradually increased, a process known as titration, to find the lowest effective dose that manages symptoms while minimizing side effects.
Potential Side Effects and Important Precautions
Hydroxyzine can cause side effects. Drowsiness is a frequent side effect due to its sedative properties, which can lead to dizziness, confusion, and blurred vision. Dry mouth is also common; constipation may be experienced, particularly in older adults.
More serious side effects, though less common, include QT prolongation, an electrical heart issue leading to irregular heart rhythms. Severe allergic reactions, characterized by rash, pus-filled blisters, swelling, and fever, warrant immediate medical attention.
Due to its sedative effects, activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, should be avoided until its impact is understood. Alcohol consumption can worsen drowsiness and other side effects and should be avoided. Interactions with other medications, especially those that also cause drowsiness or affect heart rhythm, should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
This information serves as a general guide and does not replace professional medical advice. Consulting a healthcare professional is important for anyone taking hydroxyzine. They can provide an accurate diagnosis, determine the most appropriate dosage, and monitor for potential side effects.
Contact a doctor if symptoms do not improve, worsen, or if any persistent or severe side effects occur. Concerns about potential drug interactions with other medications or supplements should be discussed with a healthcare provider. In cases of severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or signs of overdose such as extreme drowsiness, seizures, or severe confusion, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary.