Hydroxyzine is a prescription medication primarily used as an antihistamine to alleviate allergic symptoms such as itching and hives. It also serves as an anxiolytic to manage anxiety and can induce sedation for various purposes, including pre-surgery calming. This medication works by influencing specific receptors in the brain to produce its therapeutic effects. It is available in different forms, including capsules, tablets, and syrups.
Why Mixing is Dangerous
Combining hydroxyzine with alcohol is strongly discouraged due to their shared action as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Both substances slow down brain activity, and when taken together, their depressant effects are significantly amplified. This intensified action can impact neural activity and bodily functions.
Hydroxyzine exerts its sedative properties by acting as an inverse agonist at histamine H1-receptors, primarily affecting subcortical areas of the brain. Alcohol enhances the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity, and also inhibits glutamate. This dual mechanism leads to a synergistic effect, meaning their combined impact is greater than the sum of their individual effects. Consequently, essential bodily processes such as breathing and heart rate can be dangerously slowed down.
Understanding the Risks
The amplified depressant effects of mixing hydroxyzine and alcohol manifest as a range of severe and potentially hazardous risks. A common effect is extreme drowsiness and heightened sedation. This can significantly impair motor skills and coordination, increasing the likelihood of falls, accidents, and difficulty performing routine tasks.
Individuals may also experience severe dizziness, lightheadedness, difficulty concentrating, and impaired judgment. Respiratory depression, where breathing becomes dangerously slow or shallow, is a particularly concerning risk, potentially leading to oxygen deprivation. The combination also elevates the risk of accidental overdose. Furthermore, blackouts or memory loss can occur, and underlying medical conditions, especially those affecting the respiratory system or liver, may be exacerbated.
When to Seek Medical Help
Immediate medical attention is necessary if someone has consumed alcohol while taking hydroxyzine and exhibits concerning symptoms. Signs of a medical emergency include extreme drowsiness, unresponsiveness, or difficulty waking up. Very slow or shallow breathing, severe dizziness, confusion, or seizures also warrant urgent professional help.
In such situations, it is important to call emergency services. Any unusual behavior, a rapid or pounding heartbeat, or symptoms of a severe allergic reaction like hives or facial swelling require immediate evaluation. Always consult a healthcare provider about potential interactions between medications and alcohol to ensure safe and effective treatment.