Hydroxyzine
- Kevin Keane
- Aug 13, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 15, 2024
Hydroxyzine, sold under brand names like Vistaril and Atarax, is a well-established, fast-acting medication used to alleviate anxiety in children, adolescents, and adults. Unlike some other anxiety medications, hydroxyzine is non-habit forming, making it a safe choice for both short-term and as-needed use.
How Does Hydroxyzine Work?
Though the precise mechanism of hydroxyzine in treating anxiety is not fully understood, it is believed to influence two key chemicals in the body: histamine and serotonin.
Histamine Blocker: Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine, which means it blocks the effects of histamine in the body. This action helps to induce a state of calm and relaxation and can also cause drowsiness, especially at higher doses.
Serotonin Modulation: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in regulating mood. Hydroxyzine’s impact on serotonin levels is thought to be a major reason why it’s effective for anxiety, making it unique among antihistamines.
Uses of Hydroxyzine for Anxiety
Hydroxyzine is versatile in treating various anxiety disorders but is particularly useful for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), especially when anxiety is accompanied by insomnia. Unlike some anxiety medications that must be taken regularly to maintain their effectiveness, hydroxyzine can be used on an as-needed basis.
How Quickly Does Hydroxyzine Work?
One of the advantages of hydroxyzine is its rapid onset of action. Most individuals will begin to notice its effects within 30 minutes of taking the medication, with peak effectiveness occurring around 2 hours after ingestion.
Common Side Effects
Hydroxyzine is generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience side effects, the most common being:
Drowsiness: This can be beneficial if anxiety is interfering with sleep.
Dry Mouth: A mild and manageable side effect for most people.
Dosing Information
Hydroxyzine dosing for anxiety can vary widely depending on individual needs. The typical dosage ranges from 10 mg to 100 mg, taken one to four times per day. Your healthcare provider will help determine the appropriate dose based on your symptoms and response to the medication.
Written by:
Joeseph Gagnon Jr.