Hydroxyzine

What is Hydroxyzine for?

Hydroxyzine can be used to relieve symptoms such as:

• Itch
• Anxiety/tension

It may be used for short term treatment of insomnia (sleep problems) as well.

It may be given to you for other reasons. Do check with your doctor what you are taking this for.

How should I take or use Hydroxyzine?

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the instructions on the medicine label or as advised by the pharmacist.

Hydroxyzine can be taken with or without food.

Avoid taking alcohol while you are on this medicine as it will cause excessive drowsiness.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Hydroxyzine?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at your usual timing.

Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.

If you are uncertain of when to take the next dose please consult your health care professional.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Hydroxyzine?

What do I need to tell my doctor before I take this medicine?

• Drug allergies including lactose intolerance (including galactose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption and lactase deficiency)
• Pre-existing medical conditions including but not limited to heart problems, liver disease, kidney disease, glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye), porphyria (a disease which cases stomach pain, constipation, changes in the colour of urine, skin rashes and disturbed behavior)
• Whether you are taking any other medicines, supplements or traditional medicines. Some of them may affect how this medicine works.
• For women: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding or have plans to become pregnant. If you are pregnant and/or breastfeeding, your doctor would have discussed the potential benefits and side-effects of continuing this medicine with you but should you have further questions or concerns, do consult your doctor.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use Hydroxyzine?

This medicine may interaction with a number of other medicines. Inform your doctor if you are taking or intend to take other medicines or supplements. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

What are some common side effects of Hydroxyzine?

Potential side effects

All medicines may cause side effects. However, many people do not experience them.

Most of the side effects listed here will improve with time. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if they persist, become bothersome or worsen.

Serious side effects

Seek medical help as soon as possible if you have any of the following signs or symptoms:

• Allergy such as rashes, swelling of lips/face/throat, difficulty breathing
• Tremor (shakiness) or convulsions (fits)
• Fast/abnormal heart beat/rhythm

Take note that the side effects listed here are not exhaustive. Do seek medical attention if you have other symptoms that you think may be related to the medicine.

How should I store Hydroxyzine?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight

How do I throw away Hydroxyzine safely?

Throw away any unused or expired medicines. Consult your medical professional if you are unsure with respect to how to safely dispose of any excess medicines/expired medicines.

What else should I know about Hydroxyzine?

 What are the things I need to know or look out for while on this medicine?

• Avoid driving or any other activities that requires concentration until you see how this drug affects you.
• Inform your other healthcare professionals that you are on this medicine as well.
• Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before you take any other medicines or natural products.
• Do not share your medicines with others.
• Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about your medicine.

Click here for more information on Hydroxyzine as an antihistamine.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you take more than the dose prescribed to you by your doctor, consult your doctor or health care professional immediately.