What Is Hydroxyzine Used For? A Guide to This Medication

As you consider treatment options for mental health concerns or substance use disorders, you may come across hydroxyzine. This medication serves several purposes, and understanding its uses can help inform discussions with your doctor. Learn key facts about this drug and how it may play a role in comprehensive treatment at Evoke Wellness. This guide covers:

What hydroxyzine is used for
How this medication works
Side effects and precautions
Hydroxyzine’s role in addiction and mental health treatment
Benefits of Evoke Wellness’ therapeutic programs

Our addiction and mental health programs have helped over 5,000 patients and include:

If you or a loved one is considering treatment, Evoke Wellness invites you to contact us. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you take the first steps toward recovery. At Evoke Wellness, you will find more than just a treatment program – you’ll discover a community dedicated to your wellness and success. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (855) 509-1369 today or reach out online.

What Is Hydroxyzine?

Hydroxyzine is a prescription medication primarily used to treat anxiety and tension. It belongs to the drug class of antihistamines and works by blocking the effects of histamine, a naturally occurring chemical in the body.

Key Points

First approved for use in 1956, hydroxyzine is considered an older, well-established antihistamine drug.
In addition to anxiety relief, hydroxyzine can help with insomnia, nausea, vomiting, and allergic skin reactions.
It comes in tablet, capsule, and liquid form for oral administration.

How It Works

Hydroxyzine has a calming effect by depressing the brain’s activity and increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin. This sedating effect can relieve anxiety symptoms and promote sleep.

However, it takes around 15-30 minutes for hydroxyzine to start working. Maximum benefit is usually seen after 2 hours. The effects typically last 3-7 hours for regular tablets/capsules.

Uses of Hydroxyzine

Hydroxyzine is a versatile medication used to treat various conditions. Its primary use is as an antihistamine to relieve symptoms of allergic reactions and hives.

Allergy Relief

Blocks the effects of naturally occurring histamine
Alleviates itching, runny nose, watery eyes and hives

Anxiety and Tension Relief

Hydroxyzine can also act as a mild sedative, making it useful for managing:

Anxiety disorders
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Nausea and vomiting
Pre-surgery sedation

Sleep Aid

The sedative effects of hydroxyzine make it beneficial as a short-term sleep aid for people struggling with insomnia. However, it should not be used long-term due to potential dependence and tolerance issues.

With its diverse uses across allergy, anxiety, and sleep symptom management, hydroxyzine provides a versatile treatment option under medical supervision. Discuss all potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.

Side Effects of Taking Hydroxyzine

Severe Reactions

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following rare but serious side effects:

Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Seizures
Irregular or fast heartbeat
Severe drowsiness or confusion

Risks & Precautions

Hydroxyzine can increase the effects of alcohol and other medications that cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this drug affects you. The elderly may be more sensitive to hydroxyzine’s sedative effects. Speak to your doctor about all medications you’re taking to prevent potentially dangerous interactions.

Dosage Information for Hydroxyzine

Typical Adult Dosage

For treating anxiety or alcohol withdrawal symptoms, the typical dosage is 25-100 mg taken 3-4 times daily.
As a sedative before surgery, 50-100 mg is given 2-3 hours prior to the procedure.

Pediatric Dosage

The recommended dose for children over 6 years old is based on weight:

For under 40 lbs (18 kg): 25 mg once daily
For 40-90 lbs (18-40 kg): 25-50 mg daily in divided doses
Over 90 lbs (40 kg): Use adult dosing

Dosage Adjustments

Dosages may need to be reduced in elderly patients or those with liver disease. Larger or more frequent doses should be avoided, as hydroxyzine can cause excessive sedation, dizziness, and confusion. Your doctor will determine the proper dosage based on your specific needs and medical history.

Interactions and Precautions With Hydroxyzine

Drug Interactions

Avoid taking hydroxyzine with alcohol, sedatives, opioid medications, or other drugs that depress the central nervous system. Combining these can lead to excessive drowsiness.
Hydroxyzine may interact with certain antidepressants, increasing side effects. Consult your doctor before use.

Medical Conditions

Hydroxyzine should be used cautiously in those with cardiovascular disease, increased eye pressure, or an enlarged prostate, as it may worsen these conditions.
It is not recommended for those with blocked intestines or urinary retention.

Other Precautions

Hydroxyzine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated while taking hydroxyzine, as it may increase side effects.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

By understanding potential interactions and taking necessary precautions, you can help ensure safe and effective use of hydroxyzine. As always, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Hydroxyzine Overdose – What to Do

Signs of an Overdose

Drowsiness, dizziness, confusion
Rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure
Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
Seizures, tremors, muscle stiffness

Emergency Steps

If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency room. Try to provide details on how much hydroxyzine was taken and when.

Overdose Treatment

Hydroxyzine overdose treatment may involve pumping the stomach, administering medications to counteract effects, IV fluids, and supportive care. The sooner medical help is received, the better the outcome.

FAQ – Common Questions About Hydroxyzine

What is hydroxyzine used for?

Hydroxyzine is primarily used to treat anxiety, anxiety associated with depression, nausea, vomiting and alcohol withdrawal. It can also help relieve itching from allergic skin reactions.

How does hydroxyzine work?

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that works by blocking certain natural substances called histamines that cause allergic reactions. It also has sedative effects that help relieve anxiety and nausea.

What are the side effects?

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation and blurred vision. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how hydroxyzine affects you.

How should I take hydroxyzine?

Take hydroxyzine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take larger or more frequent doses. Hydroxyzine can be habit-forming if misused.

Conclusion

You now have a comprehensive understanding of what hydroxyzine is used for. From its approved uses for anxiety and itching to off-label applications like insomnia and nausea, this medication targets histamine receptors. Evoke Wellness employs hydroxyzine responsibly as part of evidence-based treatment plans.

With customized care and the latest techniques, we can help you or your loved one start the journey to lasting wellness.