Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that treats allergy symptoms like itching and hives by blocking histamine. It also acts as a sedative, managing anxiety and promoting relaxation before procedures. Taking too much hydroxyzine can lead to serious health complications, so recognizing overdose signs and seeking immediate medical help is important.
Recognizing Overdose Signs
An overdose of hydroxyzine can cause various signs and symptoms. Common indicators include drowsiness and severe sleepiness, potentially leading to decreased awareness or unresponsiveness. Confusion, disorientation, mental fog, memory lapses, or difficulty focusing may also occur.
Physical signs include severe dry mouth, blurred vision, and dilated pupils. Cardiovascular effects may include rapid heartbeat, heart palpitations, or low blood pressure. Respiratory depression, such as slow or labored breathing, is a serious symptom, especially when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol.
More severe signs include neurological disturbances like seizures, tremors, and uncoordinated movement. Agitation, delirium, or hallucinations may also occur. Profound effects can lead to stupor or coma, indicating significant central nervous system depression. These symptoms occur because hydroxyzine, a first-generation antihistamine, crosses the blood-brain barrier, affecting brain activity and producing sedative and anticholinergic effects.
Steps to Take Immediately
If a hydroxyzine overdose is suspected, immediate action is necessary. Contact emergency services (e.g., 911) first. Also contact a poison control center for expert guidance.
While waiting for medical help, do not induce vomiting unless advised by a healthcare provider. Gather information like the amount taken, time of ingestion, and any other substances consumed. Stay with the person, monitoring their breathing and heart rate until help arrives.
Professional Medical Care
At the hospital, an initial assessment will be performed. Medical personnel will monitor vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Supportive care is the primary treatment, as there is no specific antidote for hydroxyzine overdose.
Supportive care may include intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and stabilize blood pressure. Oxygen supplementation may be given, and mechanical ventilation might be necessary for severe respiratory depression. Activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent to prevent further drug absorption. Cardiac rhythm monitoring via electrocardiogram (ECG) is standard due to hydroxyzine’s potential to affect heart rhythm. Medications may also manage symptoms like nausea or low blood pressure.
Strategies for Safe Use
To prevent overdose, strictly follow prescribed hydroxyzine instructions. Always take the medication exactly as directed, without exceeding the recommended dosage or frequency. Never share prescribed medication, as dosages are tailored to individual needs.
Store hydroxyzine securely in its original container, out of reach of children and pets. Avoid combining hydroxyzine with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants (e.g., opioids, sedatives) unless advised by a healthcare professional, as this intensifies sedative effects and increases overdose risk. Proper disposal of unused or expired medication, often via pharmacy take-back programs, helps prevent misuse. Discuss any concerns about dosage, side effects, or interactions with your healthcare provider to ensure safe use.