Hydroxyzine is a prescription antihistamine that is also used for its calming properties. The drug functions by blocking the action of histamine, a natural substance the body releases during an allergic reaction, which helps to relieve itching and control nausea. Its ability to depress activity in the central nervous system also makes it effective as an anti-anxiety agent and a mild sedative. Hydroxyzine comes in two distinct chemical forms—hydrochloride and pamoate—and available strengths vary depending on the salt used.
Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride Strengths
The hydroxyzine hydrochloride salt is commonly associated with the brand name Atarax and is typically available in tablet and liquid forms. Tablets for oral administration are manufactured in three standard milligram strengths: 10 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg.
The 10 mg strength tablet is the lowest available solid oral dose and is often used when a minimal antihistamine effect is desired. The 25 mg and 50 mg tablets are frequently prescribed for moderate to more pronounced symptoms requiring greater relief. Hydroxyzine hydrochloride is also supplied as an oral solution or syrup, which typically contains 10 mg of the medication per 5 mL. This liquid preparation is useful for patients, such as children, who may have difficulty swallowing tablets or require precise, weight-based dosing.
Hydroxyzine Pamoate Strengths
Hydroxyzine pamoate is the second common salt form of the medication and is most often recognized by the brand name Vistaril. This form is typically supplied as a capsule rather than a tablet or syrup, providing a different physical option for patients. The strengths for hydroxyzine pamoate capsules are available in milligram equivalents of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.
The dosage for hydroxyzine pamoate is expressed in terms of its equivalent to hydroxyzine hydrochloride. The 25 mg and 50 mg capsules are frequently used. The 100 mg strength is reserved for situations where maximum dosing is necessary, extending the available range higher than the hydrochloride tablets.
Matching Strength to Therapeutic Use
The wide range of available strengths allows for tailored treatment based on the condition being addressed. Lower milligram doses, such as 25 mg taken multiple times a day, are employed for managing pruritus, or itching, resulting from allergic conditions. These lower doses are sufficient to block histamine receptors and reduce allergy-related symptoms without causing drowsiness.
Doses in the middle to upper range, such as 50 mg to 100 mg, are commonly utilized for their calming and sedative effects. These higher amounts are often prescribed for the short-term relief of anxiety and tension symptoms. A dose in the 50 mg to 100 mg range may also be administered for sedation before or following general anesthesia. Dosage decisions are highly individualized, considering factors like the patient’s age, body weight, and overall response to the medication.