Hydroxyzine (generic, Vistaril®) is a first-generation antihistamine medication. It also has anticholinergic properties. Here is basic information about this medication.
Indications (USA)
1. For symptomatic relief of anxiety and tension associated with psychoneurosis and as an adjunct in organic disease states in which anxiety is manifested.
2. Useful in the management of pruritus due to allergic conditions such as chronic urticaria and atopic and contact dermatoses, and in histamine-mediated pruritus.
3. As a sedative … as premedication and following general anesthesia…
Hydroxyzine is also used off label for nausea/vomiting, bruxism, etc.
Dosage
The FDA-approved doses for anxiety and tension are as below.
Adults: 50 to 100 mg four times a day
Children under 6 years: 50 mg per day in divided doses
Children over 6 years: 50 to 100 mg per day in divided doses.
Dosage forms and strengths
Generic: Tablets 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg
Generic: Capsules 25 mg, 50 mg
Generic: 10 mg/5 mL oral suspension
Vistaril® capsules 25 mg, 50 mg
Note: brand name Atarax® has been discontinued.
Important! This page does not provide all the information needed to prescribe this medication. Please refer to the full Prescribing Information (see link below) before prescribing this medication.
Related Pages
Potential side effects handout of hydroxyzine (Vistaril®)
Hydroxyzine (Vistaril®, Atarax®) and QTc prolongation
Hydroxyzine (Vistaril®, Atarax®) for treating anxiety
Antibiotics, Antipsychotics, and QT Prolongation
Antipsychotics and QT Prolongation
SSRIs and QT Prolongation
Does this drug cause QT prolongation and torsades?
References
Vistaril Prescribing Information
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