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Hydroxyzine

Brand names: Atarax, Vistaril

Hydroxyzine is a prescription antihistamine used for itching, hives, and short-term anxiety. It isn't habit-forming.

Brand namesAtarax, Vistaril
Type of medicineAntihistamine (itch and anxiety medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's sedating, so it's often taken at bedtime.

What it's used for

  • Itching from allergies, hives, or eczema
  • Anxiety
  • Calming before or after surgery

How to take it

  • Take it with or without food, as prescribed.
  • Don't drive until you know how it affects you.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Sleepiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
Call 911Fainting or a fast, irregular heartbeat
Call 911Seizure
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever
Call your provider todayTrouble peeing or confusion (more likely in older adults)

Warnings

  • It can affect heart rhythm, especially with other medicines that do the same.
  • Older adults are more likely to become confused or fall.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Alcohol, opioids, and sedating medicines add to drowsiness.
  • Other medicines that affect heart rhythm add to that risk.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not used in early pregnancy. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.