Atarax

Description

Common Uses

Atarax (hydroxyzine) is an antihistamine with sedative and calming (anxiolytic) properties. It is often prescribed to relieve anxiety, reduce allergic reactions, ease itching from conditions such as hives, eczema, or dermatitis, and help with sleep problems. The medication may also act as a mild muscle relaxant, bronchodilator, pain reliever, anti-nausea agent, and reduce stomach acid. After being taken, hydroxyzine is partially converted into cetirizine (commonly known as Zyrtec), which is also an effective antihistamine.

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Dosage & Directions

• Adults: Typically 25–100 mg per day, divided into several doses.
• Psychiatric use: In some cases, the dose may be increased up to three times the usual amount under medical supervision.
• Older adults or patients with kidney/liver problems: Lower doses are recommended.
• Duration: Usually prescribed for up to 4 weeks.
  ⚠️ Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never adjust your dosage without medical advice.

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Precautions

• Drowsiness and fatigue are common at the start of treatment. If these don’t improve after a few days, your doctor may lower the dose.
• Do not combine with MAO inhibitors or alcohol.
• Use with caution if you have heart rhythm issues, take anti-arrhythmic medication, are prone to seizures, have glaucoma, prostate enlargement, or an overactive thyroid.
• Be careful when driving or operating machinery, especially at the beginning of treatment.

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Contraindications

Atarax should not be used if you have:

• Known allergy to hydroxyzine, cetirizine, aminophylline, or ethylenediamine.
• Porphyria.
• Pregnancy, during labor, or while breastfeeding.

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Possible Side Effects

Seek emergency help immediately if you experience:

• Hives, swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat, or difficulty breathing.

Other possible side effects include:

• Drowsiness, tiredness, dizziness, blurred or double vision.
• Dry mouth, thickened mucus, stomach upset, nausea, or loss of appetite.
• Tremors, nervousness, irritability, or confusion (rare).

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Drug Interactions

Hydroxyzine can increase the sedative effects of alcohol, benzodiazepines (like Valium, Ativan, Xanax), opioid painkillers (such as Vicodin, Percocet, Dilaudid), and other drugs with anticholinergic effects. If combined, the dose of hydroxyzine may need to be reduced.

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Missed Dose

If you forget a dose, skip it if it’s almost time for your next one. Never take a double dose to make up for it.

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Overdose

Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, tremors, seizures, hallucinations, confusion, low blood pressure, nausea, or vomiting. Seek immediate medical help. Treatment may involve inducing vomiting, gastric lavage, and close monitoring of vital signs.

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Storage

• Keep at room temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F), away from light and moisture.
• Store safely out of reach of children and pets.
• Prepared liquid suspension should be refrigerated (not frozen) and discarded after 14 days.

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Disclaimer

This information is provided for general educational purposes only. It should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.