Hydroxyzine is a medication prescribed for various conditions, including anxiety, allergic reactions, and as a sedative. It works by affecting certain natural substances in the body, such as histamine. The medication is available in different forms and strengths, allowing for tailored dosing to meet individual needs.
Available Forms and Strengths
Hydroxyzine is available in several oral forms, including tablets, capsules, and an oral solution. Oral tablets come in strengths of 10 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg. Capsules are found in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg strengths. An oral solution is available at a concentration of 10 mg per 5 mL.
Hydroxyzine is available as two salt forms: hydroxyzine hydrochloride and hydroxyzine pamoate. While both contain the same active ingredient, hydroxyzine hydrochloride is absorbed more rapidly, making it suitable for acute situations, whereas hydroxyzine pamoate is preferred for conditions requiring more sustained relief. Both forms start working within 15 to 30 minutes and have similar effects and side effects.
Factors Influencing Dosage
The appropriate dosage of hydroxyzine depends on individual factors. Patient age plays a significant role, with different dosages recommended for children, adults, and elderly individuals. Elderly patients require lower starting doses due to changes in liver, kidney, or heart function, and an increased susceptibility to side effects like confusion or drowsiness.
The specific medical condition being treated dictates the dosage. Treatment for anxiety differs from that for allergic itching or pre-operative sedation. The severity of symptoms and an individual’s response to the medication are important considerations, as doses are adjusted based on how effectively symptoms are managed and how well the medication is tolerated. The presence of other health conditions, such as liver or kidney impairment, necessitate dosage adjustments to prevent drug accumulation and reduce the risk of adverse effects. A healthcare professional determines the correct dose after evaluating these factors.
Typical Doses for Common Conditions
For anxiety in adults, a starting dosage is 50 mg four times a day, with a maximum recommended daily dose of 400 mg. For allergic conditions like itching or hives, adults take 25 mg three or four times daily. When used as a sedative before or after general anesthesia, adults receive a single dose of 50 to 100 mg.
Pediatric dosing for anxiety or itching depends on age, with children younger than 6 years receiving 50 mg per day in divided doses, and those 6 years and older taking 50 to 100 mg per day in divided doses. For sedation before a procedure, a child’s dose is calculated based on body weight, around 0.6 mg per kilogram of body weight. In elderly patients, lower starting doses, such as 10-25 mg per dose, are recommended, with a maximum daily dose not exceeding 50-75 mg.
Important Safety Information
Consult a healthcare professional for hydroxyzine prescriptions and dosage adjustments. This medication can cause drowsiness, and individuals should avoid driving or operating machinery until they understand how it affects them. Other common side effects include dry mouth, headache, and fatigue.
Discuss all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, with a doctor to prevent drug interactions. Hydroxyzine can interact with other central nervous system depressants, increasing the risk of sedation. The medication can influence heart rhythm, and individuals with existing heart conditions should discuss these concerns with their healthcare provider. This information provides general guidance and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.