Hydroxyzine

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Molecule Description

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine used to manage allergic conditions, including itching, rashes, redness, swelling, and scaly skin patches. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body responsible for allergic reactions. Hydroxyzine helps relieve symptoms of allergic skin disorders. It should be used with caution in elderly patients, as side effects like dizziness or drowsiness may be more pronounced. Before starting this medicine, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, breastfeeding, or have any significant medical conditions, as it can cross the placenta and may not be safe during pregnancy.

Uses

It used to relieve itching caused by allergies, urticaria, sneezing, running nose
It is also used in the treatment of anxiety in adults

Contraindications

When should one not use Hydroxyzine

If you are allergic to Hydroxyzine or Cetirizine, other Piperazine derivatives, Aminophylline or Ethylenediamine
If you have any heart problems or if your heart rate is low
If you have low potassium or magnesium salts level in body
If you have had any past medical or family history of heart disease
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Feeling sleepy
Dry mouth
Stomach upset
Headache
Dizziness,drowsiness
Blurred vision
Restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw or neck
Tremors (uncontrolled shaking)
Confusion
Fits
Constipation

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Do not take Hydroxyzine if you are pregnant. Always consult a doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

It is unknown if Hydroxyzine is excreted into breast milk. It can cause excessive sleepiness in the breastfed babies, hence should be avoided in breastfeeding.

Driving

Do not drive after taking Hydroxyzine as it may make you drowsy, sleepy and can make you feel less alert than usual.

Alcohol

Do not take alcohol along with Hydroxyzine as it can result in excessive sleepiness and drowsiness.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have heart problems, glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye), fits
You experience palpitations, trouble breathing, loss of consciousness while taking this medicine then immediately seek medical attention
You have high blood pressure (hypertension)
You have myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakness disorder)
You have digestive system or stomach problems, difficulty in passing water e.g. due to an enlarged prostate

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Histamine is a substance produced by the body. Hydroxyzine blocks the effect of these substances and controls allergy symptoms like itching, running nose, etc. It is mainly used for allergic reactions.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Medicines for bacterial infections (antibiotics like Erythromycin, Moxifloxacin, Levofloxacin)
Medicines for heart problems or high blood pressure (like Amiodarone, Quinidine, Disopyramide, Sotalol)
Medicines for psychoses (like Haloperidol)
Medicines for depression (like Citalopram, Escitalopram)
Medicines for gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. Prucalopride)
Medicines for allergy
Medicines for malaria (e.g. Mefloquine)
Medicines for cancer (e.g. Toremifene, Vandetanib)
Betahistine used to treat Meniere's disease

Dosage

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include slowing down the central nervous system, unconsciousness, nausea or vomiting. Call the doctor immediately if you suspect you have overdosed.

Missed a Dose

Do not take the double dose if you miss any dose. Try to take the missed dose as soon as possible unless it is almost time to the next dose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Hydroxyzine is used to relieve allergic symptoms such as itching, rashes, redness, swelling, and scaly skin patches. It works by blocking histamine, the chemical responsible for allergy reactions. This helps improve comfort and reduce irritation caused by allergies. Always use it as prescribed by your doctor.

Yes, Hydroxyzine may cause drowsiness or dizziness, especially in elderly patients. Avoid driving or operating machinery after taking it until you know how it affects you. Consult your doctor if drowsiness is severe or persistent.

Hydroxyzine should not be used during pregnancy as it can cross the placenta and may harm the baby. It should also be avoided while breastfeeding unless prescribed by your doctor. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while taking it.

Yes, Hydroxyzine can interact with sleeping pills, sedatives, anti-anxiety medicines, and alcohol, increasing drowsiness or dizziness. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before starting Hydroxyzine.

Yes, but with caution, as elderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion. Your doctor may start with a lower dose and monitor you closely. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

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