Hydroxyzine

Dosage Forms Available

• Hydroxyzine is available in different forms, including oral tablets, capsules, syrups, and injectable solutions. 

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Hydroxyzine is not recommended for children under six years of age without a doctor's advice. 

Contraindications

• This medication is contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to Hydroxyzine or any of its ingredients. It should also be avoided in patients with prolonged QT interval (a heart rhythm disorder), severe kidney or liver disease, or those at risk of urinary retention. People with narrow-angle glaucoma should not take Hydroxyzine as it may worsen the condition.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Avoid combining Hydroxyzine with other sedatives, such as benzodiazepines (diazepam, alprazolam), strong painkillers (opioids like morphine), and certain antidepressants (amitriptyline, fluoxetine). It should also not be taken with alcohol or muscle relaxants, as these may increase drowsiness and dizziness. Always consult a doctor before taking new medications while using Hydroxyzine.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Hydroxyzine can cause excessive drowsiness, confusion, rapid heart rate, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected. 
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once to compensate for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

• To manage drowsiness, avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how Hydroxyzine affects you. Staying hydrated and chewing sugar-free gum may help with dry mouth. If dizziness occurs, rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid falls. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor for guidance.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Hydroxyzine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is recommended to avoid such activities until you know how the medication affects you. If you feel excessively sleepy, refrain from engaging in tasks that require focus and coordination.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Hydroxyzine should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, as it may harm the developing baby. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and cause excessive drowsiness in the infant. Consult your doctor for alternative treatments if you are pregnant or nursing.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution is advised in patients with heart conditions, kidney or liver disease, epilepsy, or an increased risk of seizures. Those with respiratory disorders, such as asthma or COPD, should consult their doctor before taking Hydroxyzine, as it may cause difficulty breathing in sensitive individuals. Patients with a history of substance abuse should also use this medication with caution due to its sedative effects.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can enhance the drowsiness and dizziness caused by Hydroxyzine.
• Stay well-hydrated and consume fibre-rich foods to help manage constipation, a possible side effect.
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to manage anxiety or sleep-related concerns effectively.