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Hydroxyzine (Vistaril/Atarax)

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Hydroxyzine (Vistaril/Atarax) explained

Hydroxyzine is a sedating antihistamine used for short‑term anxiety, pruritus, and as a premedication. It is non‑habit‑forming but can cause drowsiness.

FDA Approved

Hydroxyzine (Vistaril/Atarax) helps treat

• Short‑term anxiety
• Itching/pruritus
• Premedication for procedures
• Insomnia (off‑label)

additional medications

• Buspirone
• SSRIs/SNRIs for chronic anxiety
• CBT

medication risks

• Sedation and anticholinergic effects
• QT prolongation risk
• Caution in elderly (Beers criteria)

side effects

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Constipation

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FAQs

Q: What is hydroxyzine used for?
A: Short‑term anxiety, itching, and procedural premedication.

Q: Is it habit‑forming?
A: No—an antihistamine, not a benzodiazepine.

Q: Does it cause drowsiness?
A: Yes—avoid driving until you know your response.

Q: Any heart concerns?
A: QT prolongation risk at high doses or with other QT drugs.

Q: Alcohol?
A: Avoid—additive sedation.

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