Class: Antihistamine
Dosage Forms. Tablet: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg; Capsule: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg; Syrup: 10 mg/5 mL; Solution: 10 mg/5 mL
Common FDA Label Indication, Dosing, and Titration.
1. Anxiety: 50-100 mg po qid
2. Pruritus: 25 mg po tid-qid
3. Sedation: 50-100 mg po q4h prn
Off-Label Uses.
1. Seasonal allergic rhinitis: 10-25 mg po tid-qid
MOA. Hydroxyzine hydrochloride is a rapid-acting agent with probable action of suppressing activity in key locations of the central nervous system’s subcortical area. Primary skeletal muscle relaxation, bronchodilator activity, antiemetic effects, and antihistaminic and analgesic effects have been demonstrated experimentally and confirmed clinically.
Drug Characteristics: Hydroxyzine
Medication Safety Issues: Hydroxyzine
Drug Interactions: Hydroxyzine
Drug Interactions: Hydroxyzine
Efficacy Monitoring Parameters. Improvement in symptoms for which administered (anxiety, pruritus, insomnia).
Toxicity Monitoring Parameters. Seek medical attention for signs of severe CNS toxicity.
Key Patient Counseling Points. Patients should avoid activities requiring mental alertness or coordination until drug effects are known, as drug may cause dizziness or sedative effects.
Clinical Pearls. Product is available OTC in several dosage forms. Injectable formulation available for use as an adjunct to pain medications and anti-emetics for perioperative pain, nausea, and vomiting, and alone as a sedative.