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Vistaril vs. Ativan

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.

• 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

Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine used for short-term treatment of anxiety. The oral tablets and solution are taken by mouth, typically 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the formulation. Lorazepam is also available as an injectable medication that's given by healthcare professionals in a hospital setting to control seizures. Sleepiness and dizziness are the most common side effects of lorazepam (Ativan).

• Anxiety disorders
• Anxiety associated with depressive symptoms
• Short-term relief of anxiety
• Seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes - injection only
• Surgery-related anxiety, usually given shortly before anesthesia - injection only

• Sleepiness (16%)
• Dizziness (7%)
• Weakness (4%)
• Unsteadiness (3%)

• Sedation and difficulty breathing
• Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
• Depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Effect on driving and concentration
• Trouble breathing
• Risk of agitation and restlessness
• Harm to babies
• Serious allergic reaction (Loreev XR only)