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Compare Vistaril vs. Benadryl

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

Key takeaways

Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are both antihistamines, but they have different uses and availability. Hydroxyzine pamoate is a prescription-only medication used to relieve itching from allergies and sometimes for anxiety, though it's not a first-choice for anxiety due to its drowsiness side effect. Diphenhydramine, on the other hand, is available over-the-counter and is commonly used to treat allergy and cold symptoms, as well as for occasional sleep problems in people 12 years and older. While both medications can cause drowsiness, hydroxyzine pamoate is also available in liquid form and can be used in children as young as 6 years old for itching and anxiety. Diphenhydramine is not recommended for long-term use due to potential memory and confusion issues, especially in older adults. Additionally, hydroxyzine pamoate is not safe during pregnancy, whereas diphenhydramine is considered safe but should still be discussed with a healthcare provider.

drug combination

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  • Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)
    Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
  • Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)
    Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

  • Summary of Vistaril vs. Benadryl

    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.

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an over-the-counter (OTC) oral medication that's commonly used to treat allergies, common cold symptoms, and itching. Because it makes most people very sleepy, it can also be used as an occasional sleep aid.

  • Indications of Vistaril vs. Benadryl

    Indications for
    •Anxiety
    •Itching from allergic skin conditions (e.g., hives, eczema, etc.)
    •Sleep aid (sedative) while receiving general anesthesia for surgery
    Indications for
    •Allergies
    •Common cold symptoms
    •Trouble sleeping for people 12 years and older

  • Pros and Cons of Vistaril vs. Benadryl

    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
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Can help relieve allergy and cold symptoms within about 30 minutes
    •Can be used in children as young as 6 years old with allergy and cold symptoms
    •Can help with occasional sleep problems (12 years and older)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Available OTC in several different dosage forms
    Cons
    •Not the best option for long-term use
    •Can cause drowsiness the next day when used for sleep
    •Can cause hyperactivity in some children
    •Might not be safe for people with breathing problems, glaucoma, or problems with urinating
    •Can impair your ability to drive or do tasks that require alertness

  • Common Side Effects of Vistaril vs. Benadryl

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dry mouth
    •Headache
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Dry mouth, nose, and throat
    •Headache
    •Constipation
    •Blurry vision

  • Warnings of Vistaril vs. Benadryl

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)
    •Higher risk of side effects in people over 65
    •Severe allergic and skin reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Accidental overdose
    •Excessive sleepiness
    •Worsening of certain health problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Vistaril vs. Benadryl

    Learn more about Hydroxyzine pamoate
    Learn more about Diphenhydramine

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