Hydroxyzine
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine medication with anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and sedative properties. It works by blocking histamine H1 receptors in the body, producing a calming effect. This medication is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and tension, relieve itching from allergic conditions, and manage skin reactions.
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine used to treat anxiety, itching, and allergic reactions by blocking histamine receptors in the body.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05BB01
- RxNorm
- 5553
- Generic
- Hydroxyzine
- Class
- atc-n05
- Brands
- Vistaril
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- injection, tablet, solution, capsule, suspension
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 25mg to 100mg
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- 3 to 4 times daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 50mg
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily or in divided doses
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 25mg to 50mg
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- 3 to 4 times daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
10 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed, avoid near term due to potential respiratory depression in newborn
monitor fetal well-being and neonatal sedation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid or discontinue breastfeeding
hydroxyzine is excreted in breast milk, consider alternative or discontinue breastfeeding
monitor infant for excessive drowsiness
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyreduce dose by 50%
start with lowest effective dose due to increased sensitivity and risk of sedation, falls, and anticholinergic effects
monitor for sedation, confusion, dizziness, and fall risk
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 6not recommended
not recommended for children under 6 years due to risk of severe side effects including respiratory depression
close monitoring if used off-label
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children 6 to 12weight-based dosing
use with caution, typically 50mg daily maximum for this age group
monitor for sedation and behavioral changes
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild moderatereduce dose by 50%
reduce dose and monitor renal function, extended interval may be needed
monitor renal function and adjust dosing accordingly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severeavoid or significant reduction
use with extreme caution, consider alternative therapy, reduce dose to 25% of normal
frequent monitoring of renal function and drug levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild moderatereduce dose by 50%
hydroxyzine is metabolized in liver, reduce dose and monitor for increased sedation
monitor liver function and adjust dose as needed
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severeavoid
avoid use in severe hepatic impairment due to significantly reduced metabolism
not applicable - avoid use
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Antihistamine classification for Hydroxyzine
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indications
Mechanism of action
Primary pharmacological mechanism
Commonly prescribed since
Historical prescribing information
Hydroxyzine is used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, relieve itching caused by allergic reactions or skin conditions (such as eczema or dermatitis), manage hives, and as a sedative before medical procedures. It may also be used as an adjunct to anesthesia.
Hydroxyzine is a first-generation antihistamine that blocks H1 histamine receptors in the body. This reduces allergic symptoms like itching and hives. Its anti-anxiety effects are thought to occur through action on certain brain receptors, producing a calming, sedative effect.
Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Patients should avoid alcohol and use caution when operating machinery. It may cause urinary retention in people with prostate issues. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy