Why is this medication prescribed?

Atarax is the brand name for hydroxyzine, an antihistamine with several medical uses. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

• Allergic Reactions: It can help manage symptoms of allergic reactions, such as itching and rash.
• Anxiety: It may be used as a short-term treatment for anxiety or as a part of preoperative sedation.
• Insomnia: It can be prescribed for short-term management of insomnia.
• Nausea and Vomiting: It can help control nausea and vomiting, especially if they are associated with motion sickness.
• Sedation: It has sedative properties and can be used to help with sleep or calmness in certain situations.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a detailed explanation of how to use Atarax:

• Dosage: Follow the dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dose will depend on the condition being treated and your response to the medication.
• Administration: It is usually taken orally in the form of tablets or liquid. You can take it with or without food.
• Consistency: Take Atarax at the same time each day to help remember.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about your medication.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to its primary uses, Atarax (hydroxyzine) can sometimes be used for:

• Dermatologic Conditions: It can help with itching related to conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
• Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms: In some cases, it might be used to manage symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal.
• Psychiatric Conditions: Though less common, it can be part of the treatment plan for certain psychiatric conditions alongside other medications.

What special precautions should I follow?

Here are some key special precautions to follow when using Atarax (hydroxyzine):

• Avoid Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Hydroxyzine can increase drowsiness and sedation. Avoid consuming alcohol and be cautious with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants like benzodiazepines or opioids.
• Monitor for Drowsiness: Hydroxyzine can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Assess how the medication affects you before engaging in activities that require full alertness.
• Glaucoma: Hydroxyzine may increase intraocular pressure, so it should be used cautiously if you have glaucoma.
• Heart Conditions: It can affect heart rhythm, so consult your doctor if you have any heart-related issues.
• Liver or Kidney Disease: The medication may require dosage adjustments in patients with liver or kidney problems.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as hydroxyzine can cross the placenta and enter breast milk.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions. This includes over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• Dosage Adjustments: Do not change your dose or stop the medication abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can affect how well the medication works or lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and discuss any concerns or side effects you experience while taking Atarax.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions with hydroxyzine. However, since it can cause drowsiness, it’s wise to be cautious with caffeine and other stimulants if they interfere with your sleep or increase anxiety.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember a missed dose soon after it’s due, take it as soon as possible. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up to make up for the missed dose.
• Routine: Try to take Atarax at the same time each day to help remember.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Atarax (hydroxyzine) can cause a range of side effects. Some of the common and less common ones include:

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness: One of the most common effects, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
• Dry Mouth: This can be uncomfortable but is generally manageable.
• Dizziness: You might feel lightheaded or unsteady, especially when standing up quickly.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches while taking hydroxyzine.
• Blurred Vision: Temporary changes in vision can occur.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Nausea or Vomiting: Some people might experience stomach upset.
• Constipation: Hydroxyzine can slow down the digestive system in some individuals.
• Confusion or Agitation: Particularly in older adults, it can cause confusion or agitation.
• Rapid Heartbeat: A feeling of a racing heart or palpitations might occur.
• Allergic Reactions: Rarely, some people may have allergic reactions like rash, itching, or swelling. In severe cases, this could be anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency.
• Severe Drowsiness or Sedation: Excessive drowsiness could be problematic, especially if it interferes with daily activities.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms might include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe rash.
• Heart Problems: Irregular heartbeats or significant changes in heart rate.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can help determine whether the medication needs to be adjusted or discontinued.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Atarax:

Storage:

• Store Atarax at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Typically, this means keeping it in a cool, dry place.
• Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed. This helps protect it from moisture and contamination.
• Ensure that the medication is stored safely out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal:

• Do not flush Atarax down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Check if your community has a drug take-back program or disposal kiosk.
• If no take-back programs are available, mix the medication with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds or kitty litter) and place it in a sealed container or plastic bag. Dispose of it in your household trash. Remove any personal information from the prescription label before disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

Emergency Actions:

• Call for Help: If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Provide Information: Be prepared to provide information about the amount of medication taken, the time it was taken, and any symptoms observed.

Symptoms of Overdose:

• Severe drowsiness or sedation
• Difficulty breathing
• Unusual or irregular heartbeat
• Confusion or agitation

What other information should I know?

• Regular Check-ups: Regularly visit your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and to adjust the dose if needed.
• Avoid Self-Medication: Do not use Atarax for conditions not prescribed by your healthcare provider, and do not share it with others.
• Medication Records: Keep a record of all medications you are taking to avoid interactions and to provide complete information to your healthcare provider.
• Emergency ID: Consider carrying an emergency ID card that lists all your medications and relevant health conditions.

If you have any other questions or concerns about Atarax, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.