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Atarax vs. Valium

Hydroxyzine hydrochloride (Atarax) is a prescription antihistamine for adults and children. It's used to treat anxiety and to ease itching from allergies. It's also used as a sleep aid (sedative) before and after general anesthesia. Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) comes as tablet and oral solution that are taken by mouth up to 4 times per day. Common side effects include sleepiness and dry mouth.

• Anxiety
• Itching from allergic skin conditions (e.g., hives, eczema, etc.)
• Sleep aid (sedative) while receiving general anesthesia for surgery

• Sleepiness
• Dry mouth
• Headache

• Sleepiness
• Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)
• Higher risk of side effects in people over 65
• Severe allergic and skin reactions

Diazepam (Valium) is a benzodiazepine. It's used to treat symptoms of anxiety and alcohol withdrawal. It can also treat certain types of muscle spasms and seizures. Diazepam (Valium) comes as a tablet and liquid solution. It's taken by mouth, typically 2 to 4 times daily. Some common side effects of diazepam (Valium) include sleepiness, dizziness, and weakness. Additionally, this medication carries a risk for misuse and dependence, so it's classified as a controlled substance.

• Anxiety disorders and short-term anxiety symptoms
• Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
• Muscle spasms or spasticity from certain conditions, such as cerebral palsy and stiff-person syndrome (SPS)
• Add-on to other medications for seizures

• Sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Muscle weakness
• Problems with balance or coordination
• Memory problems

• Extreme sleepiness and difficulty breathing
• Misuse and dependence
• Withdrawal
• Harm to babies during pregnancy and after delivery
• Interactions with other medications
• Use with caution in people with depression