Atarax Generic

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with anticholinergic drying and sedative properties that is used to treat allergic reactions. Histamine is released by the body during several types of allergic reactions and -- to a lesser extent -- during some viral infections such as the common cold. When histamine binds to its receptors on cells it causes changes within the cells that lead to sneezing itching and increased mucus production. Antihistamines compete with histamine for cell receptors however when they bind to the receptors they do not stimulate the cells. In addition they prevent histamine from binding and stimulating the cells. After ingestion the molecule of hydroxyzine is changed slightly and this changed hydroxyzine that also binds to cells. This changed hydroxyzine-called an active metabolite--is cetirizine Zyrtec which is now an FDA- approved drug. Though both hydroxyzine and cetirizine act as antihistamines hydroxyzine causes sedation as a side effect and cetirizine does not. Hydroxyzine was originally approved by the FDA in 1957.

Hydroxyzine has its maximal effect about 30 to 60 minutes after it is taken. Its effects last for 4 to 6 hours. Therefore it is often prescribed to be taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for relief of allergy-related symptoms. When used to combat insomnia it is prescribed to be taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime as needed. Patients over the age of 60 years are especially sensitive to the sedating effects of hydroxyzine and the dose should be reduced. Hydroxyzine can be taken with or without food.

Hydroxyzine can commonly cause sedation tiredness sleepiness dizziness disturbed coordination drying and thickening of oral and other respiratory secretions and stomach distress. Hydroxyzine may also cause confusion nervousness irritability blurred vision double vision tremor loss or appetite or nausea. Hydroxyzine should be used with caution if at all in persons with narrow-angle glaucoma prostatic hypertrophy enlarged prostate gland hyperthyroidism cardiovascular disease hypertension and asthma.

Hydroxyzine adds to exaggerates the sedating effects of alcohol and other drugs that can cause sedation such as the benzodiazepine class of anti-anxiety drugs e.g. Valium Ativan Klonopin Xanax the narcotic class of pain medications and its derivatives e.g. Percocet Vicodin Dilaudid Codeine Darvon the tricyclic class of antidepressants e.g. Elavil Tofranil Norpramin and certain antihypertensive medications e.g. Catapres Inderal. Hydroxyzine can also intensify the drying effects of other medications with anticholinergic properties e.g. Bentyl Urecholine Probanthine Elavil Thorazine. When using these drugs the dose of hydroxyzine may require reduction therefore.

Hydroxyzine is used for the relief of nasal and non-nasal symptoms of various allergic conditions such as seasonal allergic rhinitis. Although antihistamines are the preferred class of drugs in allergic rhinitis they only reduce symptoms by 40-60. Hydroxyzine also is used as an aid for insomnia and to induce sedation prior to certain uncomfortable diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

Capsules tablets and liquids should be stored below 30°C 86°F. Liquid should not be frozen and should be shaken well prior to each use.