What is hydroxyzine?
Hydroxyzine reduces activity in the central nervous system. It also acts as an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing and runny nose, or hives on the skin.
Hydroxyzine is used as a sedative to treat anxiety and tension. It is also used together with other medications given for anesthesia. Hydroxyzine may also be used to control nausea and vomiting.
Hydroxyzine is also used to treat allergic skin reactions such as hives or contact dermatitis.
Hydroxyzine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about hydroxyzine?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to hydroxyzine, or if you are pregnant.
Before you take hydroxyzine, tell your doctor if you have a seizure disorder, liver disease, or kidney disease.
This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.
Stop using hydroxyzine and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as tremors, confusion, seizures, or restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck.
Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of hydroxyzine.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking hydroxyzine?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to hydroxyzine, or if you are pregnant.
To make sure you can safely take hydroxyzine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
asthma, emphysema, or other breathing problem;
glaucoma;
heart disease or high blood pressure;
stomach ulcer, blockage in your stomach or intestines;
thyroid disorder;
enlarged prostate or problems with urination;
liver disease; or
kidney disease.
Do not use hydroxyzine without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether hydroxyzine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Older adults may be more likely to have side effects from this medication.