What is Hydroxyzine used for?
Atarax (hydroxyzine) is a medicinal medication that primarily consists of hydroxyzine hydrochloride. This is a white, odourless powder that is soluble in water and other liquids. Atarax is an oral drug usually used to treat patients who suffer from skin allergies such as dermatitis and hives. Atarax can also be prescribed as a sedative for treating patients who suffer from anxiety disorders and stress related tension. It is sometimes used in combination with other medications to anesthetize patients when they require sedation. In some cases Atarax is used to control vomiting and nausea. Atarax works by lowering stress and activity in the nervous system and relaxing the body.
Hydroxyzine Information
How to Use Hydroxyzine?
Take Hydroxyzine exactly as instructed by your doctor. Do not take it more often, take more of it, or take it for longer than prescribed.
If you are taking the liquid form of this medication, shake well before using. Measure out the medication using a marked medicine spoon, medicine cup, or oral syringe. A regular household teaspoon will be unlikely to deliver the wrong dose.
If you take the tablet form ensure that you swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet.
Hydroxyzine Drug Interactions
Drug interactions can change how your medications work and may increase your risk of unwanted side effects. Some drug interactions can be mitigated by changing the dose of your medications or taking other precautions. In other cases, you should never use two medications together that interact.
The following medications interact with Hydroxyzine:
This is not an all-inclusive list of medications that interact with hydroxyzine. Always make sure you give your doctor a complete list of the medications you take including the prescription and non-prescription drugs, and herbal products. If you have any questions about drug interactions, please call us at 1-844-416-4282 and ask to speak with a licensed pharmacist for counselling.
Side Effect of Hydroxyzine
Along with the intended effects of a medication, it may also cause unwanted side effects. Though not all of these side effects will occur, if they do, they may need medical attention.
If the following side effects occur, check in with your doctor immediately:
Incidence not known
- Chest pain or discomfort
- cough
- difficulty with swallowing
- dizziness
- fainting
- fast heartbeat
- hives, itching, or skin rash
- irregular or slow heart rate
- puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
- shortness of breath
- tightness in the chest
- unusual tiredness or weakness
The following symptoms are indicative of overdose and require immediate medical attention:
Symptoms of overdose
- Decreased awareness or responsiveness
- drowsiness
- nausea
- seizures
- severe sleepiness
- vomiting
You may experience some side effects that don’t need medical attention. These kinds of side effects will usually go away once your body adjusts to the medication. Your doctor may also be able to help you avoid these side effects of hydroxyzine. If any of these side effects become bothersome or you have questions about them, contact your doctor:
Rare
- Shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet
- trembling or shaking of the hands or feet
Incidence not known
- Dry mouth
- headache
- seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
Side effects not listed here may occur in some patients. If you notice negative effects not listed here, check in with your healthcare professional.