Guide To Hydroxyzine
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine, which means that it blocks the effects of histamine. Histamine is a naturally-occurring chemical that is produced in large amounts during an allergic reaction. This is what triggers a patient's symptoms. Individuals will be given different doses depending on their medical history, age, and the reason they are taking it. Children might have their dose adjusted based on their weight. The medicine should not be taken more often than prescribed.
Most patients will consider hydroxyzine as one of their meds for an allergic reaction. It is quite a common oral allergy medication, though it is also a prescription antihistamine. Patients may have tried strong over-the-counter antihistamines to relieve their allergies. It is also used as a medication for anxiety on a short-term basis. Some doctors prescribe it as a sedative for surgery as well. However, patients need to understand this medication and how it works before taking it.
How It Works
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine, which is a class of medications that block the effects of histamine in the body. High levels of histamine are what lead to allergy symptoms. Typical symptoms include itching, redness, and watery eyes. In addition to interacting with histamine, this medication also decreases brain activity, which is why it is sometimes prescribed as a sedative. Hydroxyzine is taken orally and may come in liquid, tablet, or capsule form.
Patients are usually prescribed this medication anywhere from three to four times daily. The frequency will depend on the severity of the allergies and how well patients are responding to treatment. Patients need to follow the instructions their doctor and pharmacist gives them. A new prescription will come with directions on the label. There may also be an accompanying medication guide. If patients take hydroxyzine in suspension format, they must shake the liquid so that the medicine disperses evenly.
Get the details on the uses of this medication next.
Uses And Benefits
Hydroxyzine is prescribed to both adults and children who are suffering from severe itching due to an allergic reaction. It may be prescribed on a short-term basis for adults and children dealing with a significant amount of tension and anxiety. It is also one of several medications that may be used to sedate a patient before they receive general anesthesia for surgery. Hydroxyzine may be used as a sedative when they wake up from the anesthesia as well. The most common use is for rashes and skin conditions caused by histamines, such as contact dermatitis and hives.
This medication will not stop a patient's immune system from reacting to the allergen. Because of this, treatment must also involve finding the cause of the problem and addressing it. Allergy tests can be performed to reveal how a person reacts to certain common allergens. Suppose an allergen cannot be reduced or removed. In that case, the doctor needs to determine if hydroxyzine is the best medication for ongoing treatment.
Continue reading to reveal the potential side effects of this medication next.
