Drug Uses
Atarax is used for symptomatic relief of
anxiety and tension associated with
psychoneurosis and as an adjunct in
organic disease states in which anxiety
is manifested.
How Taken
For adults, 50-100 mg daily; for
children under 6 years, 50 mg daily in
divided doses and over 6 years, 50-100
mg daily in divided doses.
Warnings/Precautions
It
is not known whether this drug is
excreted in human milk. Since many drugs
are so excreted, you should use caution
if taking this drug while pregnant.
Missed Dose
If
you miss a dose, use it as soon as you
remember. If it is near the time of the
next dose, skip the missed dose and
resume your usual dosing schedule. Do
not double the dose to catch up.
Possible Side Effects
The side effects you may experience on
Atarax are usually mild and transitory
in nature: dry mouth, drowsiness.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place. Protect from
light and moisture. Keep out of reach of
children.
Overdose
The most common manifestation of Atarax
overdosage is hypersedation. Seek
emergency medical attention if an
overdose is suspected.
More Information
Since drowsiness may occur with use of
this drug, use caution when driving a
car or operating dangerous machinery
while taking Atarax.
Hydroxyzine depresses activity in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), which causes relaxation and relief from anxiety. Therefore, hydroxyzine is used to treat anxiety disorders and tension in stressful situations--before surgery, for example.
Hydroxyzine may also increase the effects of other medicines, such as pain relievers and sedatives, so it is useful after surgery also.
Hydroxyzine is also an antihistamine. It
blocks the effects of the naturally
occurring chemical histamine in your
body. This makes hydroxyzine useful for
treating allergic conditions, especially
those that involve the skin, such as
hives, itching, and rashes.
Hydroxyzine may also be used for
purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.
