Hydroxyzine is a prescription medication often used to address conditions like anxiety, allergic reactions, and insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs known as antihistamines. A common question arises regarding its compatibility with alcohol, and generally, combining hydroxyzine with alcohol is advised against due to potential health risks.
How Hydroxyzine Affects the Body
Hydroxyzine functions as a first-generation antihistamine, primarily by blocking H1 histamine receptors in the body. This blocks H1 histamine receptors, alleviating allergy symptoms like itching, swelling, and redness. It also acts as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, used for managing anxiety, promoting sedation before medical procedures, and aiding sleep.
Its sedative properties induce drowsiness and a relaxed state by reducing brain activity. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, and dizziness. These effects typically begin within 15 to 30 minutes and can last for several hours.
The Dangers of Combining Alcohol and Hydroxyzine
Mixing alcohol with hydroxyzine poses significant risks because both substances are central nervous system depressants. When consumed together, their effects are amplified. This heightened depressant effect can result in severe and potentially life-threatening consequences.
A primary concern is increased sedation and drowsiness, profoundly impairing daily functioning. Activities like driving or operating machinery become hazardous due to reduced reaction time and impaired motor skills. The combination can also lead to impaired cognitive function, manifesting as confusion, poor judgment, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems.
Another serious risk is respiratory depression, where breathing becomes significantly slowed or even stops. This is dangerous at higher doses or with excessive alcohol, potentially leading to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain, unconsciousness, coma, or death. The combined use also increases the risk of overdose symptoms, including unresponsiveness, convulsions, excessive vomiting, clammy skin, and abnormal heart rhythms. Common side effects of hydroxyzine, like dizziness and blurred vision, are exacerbated by alcohol, increasing the risk of falls and accidents.
Safe Practices and Medical Guidance
It is recommended to avoid alcohol while taking hydroxyzine. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against combining alcohol with central nervous system depressants like hydroxyzine due to the risk of severe impairment. Even a single alcoholic drink can intensify the medication’s sedative properties.
There is no universally safe waiting period to consume alcohol after taking hydroxyzine, as the drug’s effects can linger. While noticeable effects may subside after a few hours, hydroxyzine has an average half-life of 14 to 25 hours, meaning it takes approximately 70 to 125 hours for the body to eliminate a single dose. Waiting at least 48 to 72 hours after the last dose is generally advised, especially for higher doses or regular use, to minimize the risk of adverse interactions.
Patients should always discuss their alcohol consumption habits with their prescribing physician. Inform your doctor about any alcohol use, as alternative medications might be considered if avoiding alcohol is challenging. If extreme drowsiness, difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, or seizures occur after combining hydroxyzine and alcohol, immediate medical attention is necessary.