Indications
Atarax, also known as hydroxyzine, is a prescription drug used to treat anxiety, allergies, and itching. It works by blocking histamines in the body that are responsible for inflammation, itching, sneezing, and other allergic reactions.
Atarax (Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride) is a sedative drug commonly used to relax and calm adults and children before and after they receive general anesthesia for surgery. It has been successfully used in combination with other drugs to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, tension headaches, and nausea. In addition, it has been found to be effective in reducing preoperative stress and aiding postoperative recovery.
This antihistamine works as a potent inverse agonist of histamine H1-receptors. It has a negative efficacy which actively dampens the activity at a receptor. This is responsible for the management of histaminic edema, pruritus, and flare. Atarax also has sedative properties that occur at the subcortical level of the central nervous system (CNS). Its sedative effect also acts as an anxiolytic.
Uses and Dosage
Atarax medication comes in form of capsules and tablets to be taken orally by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually three or four times daily. However, the dosage for hydroxyzine Hcl is dependent on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. In children, the dosage may also be based on weight.
For symptomatic relief of anxiety and tension associated with psychoneurosis and as an adjunct in organic disease states in which anxiety is manifested in:
- Adults 50–100 mg three times a day.
- For children under 6 years, 50 mg daily in divided doses.
- For children over 6 years, 50–100 mg daily in divided doses.
For use in the management of pruritus due to allergic conditions such as chronic urticarial and atopic and contact dermatoses, and in histamine-mediated pruritus in:
- Adults, 25 mg three or four times a day.
- For children under 6 years, 50 mg daily in divided doses
- For children over 6 years, 50–100 mg daily in divided doses.
As with all medications, the dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's response to therapy. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects
Some Serious Side Effects of Atarax Including
- Mental/mood changes (such as confusion and hallucinations),
- Unintentional trembling or shaking movements
- Restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, or neck.
- Constipation (especially in older adults)
- Difficulty urinating,
- Fast/irregular heartbeat
Common Side Effects of Atarax Include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
Form and Strength
Atarax (Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride) are available in the following forms:
Atarax: Tablet
- 10 mg
- 25mg
Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride: Tablet
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
Caution
Before taking Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride,
- Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride should be used with caution if used in combination with central nervous system /CNS/ depressants. Therefore, when central nervous system depressants are administered concomitantly with hydroxyzine their dosage should be reduced.
- During pregnancy, Atarax should be used only if prescribed. It is unknown if Atarax passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding while using Atarax is not recommended.
- Older adults should not usually take hydroxyzine because it is not as safe as other medications that can be used to treat the same condition.
- You should know that this medication may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Alcohol can make the side effects of hydroxyzine worse. Ask your doctor about the safe use of alcohol while you are taking this medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can hydroxyzine be taken long-term?
Hydroxyzine is intended for short-term use only (less than 4 months) when used to treat anxiety.
How Fast Does Atarax Work for Anxiety?
Atarax tablets start showing results in the body within 30 minutes of their consumption. The effect may last up to 2 hours. It blocks the effects of histamine in the body, making you feel sleepy.
Is It Safe to Take Atarax Every day?
Yes, it is safe to consume Atarax every day. Based upon the response, your doctor or the healthcare provider will determine the number of doses you should take in a day.
Is Atarax Addictive?
Though Atarax has anti-anxiety and sedative effects that make people feel relieved, it is unlikely that someone can develop an addiction.
Resources
- Drugs@FDA: FDA-Approved Drugs. Accessed Jan. 11, 2022 at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm
- Drug Monograph. Drugs.com. Accessed Jan. 11, 2021 at https://www.drugs.com/hydroxyzine.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/atarax-side-effects-drug-center.htm
- https://www.yashodahospitals.com/medicine-faqs/atarax/#
- https://www.mapleleafmeds.com/drug/atarax/
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