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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.

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

  • 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, also known by the brand name Benadryl, is an over-the-counter antihistamine used to relieve allergy or common cold symptoms in adults and children. It comes as pills and a liquid and is typically taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Because it can make you drowsy, some people also use it as a sleep aid at bedtime. Common side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth.

  • 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
    •Short-term relief of allergy or common cold symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, and itchy or watery eyes) - people 6 years and older
    •Occasional trouble sleeping - 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
    •Relieves allergy and cold symptoms in about 15 to 30 minutes
    •Safe for children as young as 6 years old
    •Available over the counter
    •Comes as pills and liquid
    Cons
    •Can make you feel sleepy or dizzy
    •Might need to take multiple times a day for symptom relief
    •Not the best choice for older adults
    •Can worsen certain conditions like glaucoma and stomach ulcers

  • Common Side Effects of Vistaril vs. Benadryl

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dry mouth
    •Headache
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Constipation
    •Blurry vision
    •Dry mouth

  • 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
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidental overdose
    •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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