Common uses

This medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) is an antihistamine used to treat anxiety, to relieve itching caused by allergic conditions, and to cause drowsiness. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) provided by your doctor. This medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach. Store this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

This medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) will add to the effects of other depressants and alcohol. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine)s are depressants. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine). Using this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) alone, with other medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine)s, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks. Caution should be used in the elderly since they may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug.

For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) during pregnancy. It is unknown if this drug is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine).

Why is this drug prescribed?

Atarax is an antihistamine used to relieve the symptoms of common anxiety and tension and, in combination with other medications, to treat anxiety that results from physical illness. It also relieves itching from allergic reactions and can be used as a sedative before and after general anesthesia. Antihistamines work by decreasing the effects of histamine, a chemical the body releases that narrows air passages in the lungs and contributes to inflammation. Antihistamines reduce itching and swelling and dry up secretions from the nose, eyes, and throat.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include drowsiness or dry mouth. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include unusual drowsiness and dizziness.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) from doing its job. Some medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine)s or medical conditions may interact with this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine). Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) that you are taking.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) for other health conditions. Keep this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) out of the reach of children. If using this medicine (Atarax - Hydroxyzine) for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.