Atarax 10mg Tablets - Uses, Side Effects, Precautions and FAQs
Uses
Hydroxyzine is used to treat itching caused by allergies. It is an antihistamine and works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction. Hydroxyzine may also be used short-term to treat anxiety or to help you feel sleepy/relaxed before and after surgery.
How to use Atarax Tablet
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually three or four times daily. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. In children, the dosage may also be based on weight. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
What Are Side Effects of Atarax
Common side effects of Atarax include
- drowsiness,
- dizziness,
- blurred vision,
- constipation,
- dry mouth.
Tell your doctor if you experience serious side effects of Atarax including:
- mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, confusion, hallucinations),
- shaking (tremor),
- difficulty urinating, or
- fast/irregular heartbeat
Missed Dose
Overdose
1. Has Atarax Been Discontinued?
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.
2. How Fast Does Atarax Work For Anxiety?
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.
3. Do Atarax Cause Weight Gain?
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.
4. How Long Does Atarax Last?
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.
5. Is Atarax A Narcotic?
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.
6. Is Atarax A Sleeping Pill?
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.
7. Is It Safe To Take Atarax Every day?
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.
8. Is Atarax The Same As Benadryl?
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.
9. Is Atarax Addictive?
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.
10. Does Atarax Stop Panic Attacks?
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.
