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Compare Restoril vs. Vistaril

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Temazepam (Restoril) and hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) are both used to help with sleep, but they belong to different medication classes. Temazepam is a benzodiazepine, while hydroxyzine pamoate is an antihistamine. Temazepam is specifically FDA-approved for short-term treatment of insomnia, whereas hydroxyzine pamoate can be used off-label as a sleep aid. Temazepam is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and addiction, while hydroxyzine pamoate is not. Temazepam is typically taken once daily at bedtime as needed, whereas hydroxyzine pamoate can be taken up to four times a day. Common side effects of temazepam include drowsiness and headache, while hydroxyzine pamoate often causes sleepiness and dry mouth. Temazepam can interact dangerously with opioids and alcohol. Hydroxyzine pamoate can cause an abnormal heart rhythm, especially if taken with other medications that affect the heart. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic.

  • Temazepam (Restoril)
    Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)
  • Temazepam (Restoril)
    Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)

  • Summary of Restoril vs. Vistaril

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Temazepam (Restoril) is a short-term option for people who have insomnia (trouble sleeping). It's a benzodiazepine, so taking it can lead to misuse, addiction, and sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it. For this reason, it's a controlled substance, so you'll need close follow-up with your provider to make sure this medication remains safe for you to take. Common side effects include drowsiness, headache, nervousness, and sometimes a "hangover" feeling the next morning after your dose. The medication available as a brand name (Restoril) and a generic version.

    Summary for Antihistamine
    Prescription only

    Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) is a prescription antihistamine. It's taken by adults and children to treat anxiety and to ease itching from allergies. It's also used as a sleep aid (sedative) before and after general anesthesia. Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) comes as a capsule that's taken by mouth up to 4 times daily. Some common side effects of this medication include sleepiness, dry mouth, and headache. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) because doing so can worsen drowsiness.

  • Indications of Restoril vs. Vistaril

    Indications for
    •Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)
    Indications for
    •Anxiety
    •Itching from allergic skin conditions (e.g., hives, eczema, etc.)
    •Sleep aid (sedative) while receiving general anesthesia for surgery

  • Pros and Cons of Restoril vs. Vistaril

    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Can help you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night
    •Only taken once a day at bedtime
    •Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can cause memory problems, dizziness, and confusion
    •Can worsen suicidal thoughts in some people with depression
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
    •Only recommended for short-term use (7 to 10 days)
    •Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Helps relieve itching and anxiety within 30 minutes
    •An option for children
    •Taken by mouth
    Cons
    •Sleepiness and dizziness are common side effects
    •Can rarely cause sexual side effects
    •Might need to take up to 4 times a day

  • Common Side Effects of Restoril vs. Vistaril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness (9%)
    •Headache (9%)
    •Fatigue or exhaustion (5%)
    •Nervousness (5%)
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Dizziness (5%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dry mouth
    •Headache

  • Warnings of Restoril vs. Vistaril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Risk of misuse and addiction
    •Risk of dependence and withdrawal
    •Complex behaviors
    •Harm to babies
    •Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
    •Severe allergic reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)
    •Higher risk of side effects in people over 65
    •Severe allergic and skin reactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Restoril vs. Vistaril

    Learn more about Temazepam
    Learn more about Hydroxyzine pamoate

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