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Hydroxyzine
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine medication that has several uses, such as treating itching and improving the effectiveness of opioid pain relievers. This prescription medication comes in various forms, including tablets, capsules, syrup, liquid, and injections. It is typically taken two to four times daily. Side effects are possible and may include dry mouth, drowsiness, and headaches.
Hydroxyzine (Atarax®, Vistaril®) is a prescription medication commonly used to treat itching and to improve the effectiveness of opioid pain relievers, although it is approved for other uses as well.
(Click What Is Hydroxyzine Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like any medicine, hydroxyzine may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
Some of the possible side effects include, but are not limited to:
- Dry mouth (see Hydroxyzine and Dry Mouth)
- Drowsiness
- Headaches.
(Click Hydroxyzine Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD