Atarax: A Comprehensive Guide

Atarax, also known by its generic name hydroxyzine, is a medication used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and itching. It is an antihistamine with sedative, anticholinergic, and antiemetic properties. Atarax is available in tablet, syrup, and injectable forms. Atarax is considered a safe and effective medication, but it can cause side effects, including drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about Atarax, including its uses, dosage, side effects, and more.

Uses of Atarax

Atarax is primarily used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and itching. It can also help to reduce the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and reduce anxiety before surgery. Additionally, Atarax has been used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by certain medications.

How Atarax Works

Atarax works by blocking histamine, a chemical in the body that causes allergy symptoms. It also blocks the effects of acetylcholine, a chemical in the body that can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and itching. By blocking these chemicals, Atarax can reduce the symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and itching.

Atarax Dosage

Atarax is available in tablet, syrup, and injectable forms. The usual adult dosage is 25-100mg daily, given in divided doses. The usual pediatric dosage is 1-2mg/kg/day, given in divided doses. The dosage for Atarax should be adjusted for patients with kidney or liver disease.

Atarax Side Effects

Atarax is generally considered to be safe and effective, but it can cause side effects. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Other side effects may include increased heart rate, constipation, blurred vision, and difficulty urinating. If you experience any side effects while taking Atarax, contact your healthcare provider.

Atarax and Pregnancy

Atarax is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but women should discuss the risks and benefits of taking Atarax with their healthcare providers. Atarax can pass into breast milk, so women should talk to their healthcare providers about the best way to feed their babies while taking Atarax.

Atarax Alternatives

There are several alternatives to Atarax, including other antihistamines, antidepressants, and benzodiazepines. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best option for you. Some potential alternatives to Atarax include diphenhydramine (Benadryl), doxepin (Silenor), lorazepam (Ativan), and sertraline (Zoloft).

Conclusion

Atarax is a medication used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and itching. It is an antihistamine with sedative, anticholinergic, and antiemetic properties. Atarax is generally considered to be safe and effective, but it can cause side effects, including drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to use Atarax, as well as the risks and benefits of taking Atarax during pregnancy. There are several alternatives to Atarax, including other antihistamines, antidepressants, and benzodiazepines.