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Hydroxyzine (generic, Vistaril®): Basic Information

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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