Hydroxyzine

Information About Hydroxyzine

Uses of Hydroxyzine

Hydroxyzine is commonly used to treat allergic skin conditions such as urticaria and dermatosis, anxiety, post operative nausea and vomiting, pre or post operative sedation.

How Hydroxyzine Works

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine. It inhibits histamine receptors on cells of the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels and respiratory tract. It also inhibit reactions such as vasodilation, sneezing, flare and itch reactions. It has antimuscarinic, antiemetic and analgesic properties.

Side Effects of Hydroxyzine

Hypersensitivity reactions, Agitation and disorientation, Blurry vision, Tinnitus, Vertigo, Hypotension, Palpitations, Constipation, Dry mouth, Fatigue

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Hydroxyzine Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Hydroxyzine. Taking Hydroxyzine with alcohol may have additive effects in CNS depressant.

Pregnancy Limited Data

Hydroxyzine is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is proven reproductive toxicity from animal studies. Nevertheless, human data is limited but there are few cases of irritability, tremor and paradoxical excitability in neonates when used in third trimester of pregnancy.

Lactation Not Advisable

Hydroxyzine is found to be excreted in human milk. Although there is no information on the effects of the medication to the nursing infants, it should not be given to lactating women.

Driving Not advisable

(Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Hydroxyzine may cause side effects such as blurry vision and palpitation all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Hydroxyzine should be used with caution in patients with moderate to severe kidney disease. Total daily dose adjustment of Hydroxyzine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Liver Use With Care

Hydroxyzine should be avoided in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Hydroxyzine may be needed in moderate liver disease. Please consult your doctor.