Atarax

 Category: Allergy

Generic name: Hydroxyzine

Atarax tablets or capsules

What is Atarax?

Atarax is an antihistamine. The active ingredient in Atarax is hydroxyzine which is dispensed as oral tablets (10mg and 25mg) and a mint-flavored syrup.

Drug Uses

The active ingredient in Atarax works on the central nervous system, reducing the amount of histamine, thereby bringing relief to allergic symptoms such as hives, runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing. Atarax is also used to treat dermatitis and is a useful medication to control nausea.

Atarax is an effective treatment for tension and anxiety in patients who have emotional problems. Atarax often forms part of a therapy program to treat alcoholism.

Atarax is used for other medical conditions not mentioned in this information guide.

Dose

Atarax must always be used as directed. Do not make adjustments to the dose before speaking to a doctor. Atarax tablets should be taken with water.

Dosage will depend on the type of condition Atarax is being used to treat, as well as the severity of the condition. The usual dosage for adults is 25-100mg taken three or four times a day.

CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 6 YEARS: 30-50mg per day in equally divided doses.
CHILDREN OVER THE AGE OF 6 YEARS: 50-100mg per day in equally divided doses.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, it may be taken when you remember. However, do not take the missed dose near the time of the next scheduled dose. In this case, ignore the missed dose. Never double-up on a dose.

Warnings and Precautions

Do not use Atarax if you are allergic to hydroxyzine.

Tell your doctor if you suffer with any of the following: asthma, emphysema or other respiratory disorders, seizures, glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart disease, stomach ulcer, stomach or intestinal blockage, thyroid disorder, kidney or liver disease, urination problems, or enlarged prostate.

Pregnant women should not use Atarax. Women who are breast-feeding should use Atarax with caution as hydroxyzine passes into breast milk. Discuss the risks with a doctor.

Before using Atarax, you must give your doctor full details of your medical history and other medications that you use. These include herbal medicines and vitamin supplements. Atarax can react badly with some medications.

When starting treatment with Atarax avoid driving or doing other any task that may be dangerous. Atarax may impair concentration and co-ordination.

Tell your doctor if you use medications to help you sleep, and if you are using pain-killers, muscle relaxants, or antidepressants. Atarax may cause extreme drowsiness when used with such medications.

Possible Side-effects

Get emergency help if any of the following allergic symptoms occur: hives, difficulty in breathing, or swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat.

Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of the following serious side-effects: tremors, seizure, or twitching muscles in the eyes, tongue, neck or jaw.

Less serious side-effects may include headache, vision problems, dry mouth, drowsiness, or dizziness.

Contact your doctor if any uncomfortable symptoms occur, or persist.

Overdose

Call for emergency help immediately. Symptoms of overdose can include fainting, nausea, extreme drowsiness, or vomiting.

Storage instructions

Atarax must be kept away from children and stored in a dry, cool place away from sunlight and moisture.