Can You Take Too Much Hydroxyzine?
Hydroxyzine (
Atarax®,
Vistaril®) is a prescription antihistamine. As with most medications, it may be possible to take too much hydroxyzine. The specific effects of an overdose will vary, depending on a number of factors, including the
hydroxyzine dosage and whether it was taken with any other medications or substances.
Symptoms of an Overdose With Hydroxyzine
The effects of a hydroxyzine overdose may include:
- Dilated pupils
- Flushed face
- Dry mouth
- Excitation (more common in children)
- Drowsiness (more common in adults)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Coma
- Fever
- Rapid heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Cardiac arrest
- Kidney failure
- Intestinal blockage
- Muscle pain and damage
- Loss of life.
Treatment for a Hydroxyzine Overdose
The treatment for an overdose with hydroxyzine will vary. If the overdose was recent, a healthcare provider may administer activated charcoal to help absorb the medication in the digestive tract. Treatment may also involve supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV), if necessary
- Careful monitoring of the vital signs
- Medications to control blood pressure, heart rate, heart rhythm, and seizures
- Other treatments based on the complications that occur.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have taken a hydroxyzine overdose.
