Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Atarax

Atarax: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Atarax?

Atarax is a brand name of a drug with its main chemical component as hydroxyzine. It is classified as a potent drug. A person needs to have a prescription before they can take this drug. Atarax treats itches caused due to allergic reactions. It belongs to the group known as analgesics and acts as an antihistamine. It is also used as a neuroleptic to treat anxiety or feel comfortable post-surgery.

What are the uses of Atarax?

The primary use of Atarax is as an anti-allergic or antihistamine medication. Atarax blocks histamine in the body, which is released due to allergic reactions. Also, it can treat other symptoms of skin allergy like swelling and rashes.

Some uses and benefits of Atarax:

  • Used to lessen the severity of allergic reactions.
  • Relieves anxiety.
  • Relieves pain.

Do call our medical experts to receive expert medical advice on the use of Atarax.

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    What are the side effects of Atarax?

    Side effects observed due to consumption of hydroxyzine are usually mild and transitory. However, side effects include:

    • Swelling in the face, tongue, or throat.
    • Dizziness/fainting.
    • Constipation.
    • Shaking.
    • Dry mouth.
    • Restlessness.

    Other serious side effects may include:

    • Blurred vision.
    • Change in mood (confusion or hallucinations).
    • Irregular heartbeat.
    • Urinary problems.
    • Seizures.

    Immediately seek doctor’s advice if you experience any of the above serious side effects. Consult our experts at Yashoda Hospitals to know more about the side effects.

    What is Atarax

    Uses of Atarax

    Side effects of Atarax

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Atarax

    Yes, Atarax has been discontinued. It is a fact that prolonged consumption of Atarax may lead to a fast or irregular heartbeat, which is problematic. Intake of this antihistamine can increase the risk of QT prolongation and torsade de Pointes (TdP), leading to seizures, dizziness, and sudden cardiac death.

    Atarax tablets start showing results in the body within 30 minutes of their consumption. The effect may last up to 2 hours. It blocks the effects of histamine in the body, making you feel sleepy. Hydroxyzine generally treats anxiety disorders associated with insomnia. For adults, a dosage of 50-100mg is prescribed.

    According to researchers, Atarax causes 10-12% weight gain in adults. Histamines also control the body’s appetite aspect. However, Atarax is a type of antihistamine that reduces naturally occurring histamines. This, in turn, causes overeating and thus results in weight gain. So, yes, Atarax does cause weight gain in the body.

    In general, the effect of Atarax lasts from four to six hours. However, its effect is observed in the body within 30 to 60 minutes of its consumption. Atarax should be taken as prescribed by the doctor. It is given orally or via an intramuscular injection.

    Atarax primarily treats symptoms of allergies and anxiety. It contains hydroxyzine which directly acts on the brain. Atarax has hydroxyzine, which causes drowsiness, so care should be taken when the drug is used with depressants like narcotics, barbiturates, or nonnarcotic analgesics.

    Atarax is a sedative to treat hypertension and anxiety. It reduces or slows down the activity of the central nervous system. Atarax contains hydroxyzine which is an effective short-term solution for insomnia. It may be used as a sleeping pill to make you feel sleepy or relaxed pre and post-surgery.

    Yes, it is safe to consume Atarax every day. Based upon the response, your doctor or the healthcare provider will determine the number of doses you should take in a day. You should take it on an empty stomach or after eating. If you experience an upset stomach, take it with food.

    Atarax relieves itching caused by allergic reactions and helps overcome anxiety. It makes you feel sleepy. On the other hand, Benadryl treats allergy symptoms and hives and makes you feel drowsy. Atarax purchase is possible only when prescribed, while you can purchase Benadryl over-the-counter.

    It is unlikely that someone can have hydroxyzine addiction. Though Atarax has anti-anxiety and sedative effects that make people feel relieved, it is unlikely that someone can develop an addiction. However, some people may misuse it by taking the medicine in high doses. Hence, Atarax is not addictive if taken in the prescribed dosage.

    Yes. Atarax does help in treating panic attacks and is quite effective. Besides, it is used to treat anxiety as it contains hydroxyzine. But having Atarax may have some side effects. These side effects include nausea, dry mouth, and sedation.

    Call Yashoda Hospitals to consult with our medical aspects and know about the uses and benefits, and side-effects of Atarax.