Common Use

Atarax has sedative and anxiolytic effects. It is an antihistamine with anticholinergic and sedative properties, commonly used to treat allergies. This medication positively impacts cognitive abilities, enhancing memory and attention. It does not cause psychological dependence or addiction. Atarax relaxes smooth muscles, acts as a bronchodilator, provides analgesic effects, and moderately inhibits gastric secretion. It may also be used as an antiemetic and myorelaxant. Hydroxyzine reduces itching caused by hives, eczema, dermatitis, and similar conditions. After ingestion, Hydroxyzine is converted into its active form, cetirizine (Zyrtec). Both Hydroxyzine and cetirizine function as antihistamines.

Dosage and Direction

The typical daily dosage for adults is 25-100 mg, divided into several doses. In psychiatric practice, the daily dose may be tripled. The usual treatment duration is four weeks. Dosage should be reduced for elderly individuals and those with kidney or liver failure. Only use this medication if prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions

• If side effects like drowsiness and weakness persist after several days, reduce the dosage of Hydroxyzine.
• Avoid taking it with MAO inhibitors.
• Use caution for patients with arrhythmia, those taking anti-arrhythmic medications, or those predisposed to convulsions.
• It is not recommended for patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, or hyperthyroidism.
• Avoid alcohol during treatment.
• Drivers and individuals in roles requiring high concentration should use the medication cautiously during work.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to cetirizine, aminophylline, or ethylenediamine.
• Porphyria.
• Pregnancy, during labor and delivery, and breastfeeding.

Possible Side Effects

• Seek emergency medical help if signs of an allergy occur: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Discontinue use immediately.
• Other side effects may include sedation, tiredness, sleepiness, dizziness, disturbed coordination, dry mouth, thickened respiratory secretions, stomach distress, confusion, nervousness, irritability, blurred vision, double vision, tremors, loss of appetite, and nausea.

Drug Interaction

Hydroxyzine enhances the sedative effects of alcohol and other sedative medications, such as benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, Xanax) and narcotic pain medications (e.g., Percocet, Vicodin, Dilaudid). It may also intensify the drying effects of other anticholinergic drugs. In such cases, the dosage of Hydroxyzine should be reduced.

Missed Dose

Do not take a double dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include hypersedation, tremors, convulsions, spasms, hallucinations, delirium, confusion, hypotension, nausea, and vomiting. General treatment involves inducing vomiting (if not spontaneous), gastric lavage, and monitoring vital functions. Seek immediate medical attention.

Storage

• Store at room temperature (59-77°F or 15-25°C) away from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use after the expiration date.
• Store prepared suspension in a refrigerator for up to 14 days, but do not freeze it. Discard after this period.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of the medication and does not cover all directions, possible interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult a healthcare professional for specific instructions tailored to your needs. We disclaim any responsibility for the reliability of this information or any damages resulting from its use or self-treatment.