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Compare Vistaril vs. Buspar

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

Key takeaways

Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) and buspirone (Buspar) are both used to treat anxiety, but they have some key differences. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that can also help with itching and allergies, while buspirone is specifically an antianxiety medication. Hydroxyzine works quickly, often within 15 to 30 minutes, but it can cause drowsiness and is not recommended for long-term use. In contrast, buspirone takes about 2 to 4 weeks to show effects and is taken twice daily. Buspirone has a lower risk of dependency and withdrawal symptoms compared to other anxiety medications, but it can cause dizziness and nausea. Hydroxyzine is available in both pill and liquid forms, while buspirone is only available as a pill.

  • Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)
    Buspirone
  • Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)
    Buspirone

  • Summary of Vistaril vs. Buspar

    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 Antianxiety
    Prescription only

    Buspirone is used to relieve anxiety, but it's not a first-choice medication. Your provider might consider adding on buspirone if your anxiety symptoms aren't well-controlled by other medications. It's taken by mouth, typically twice daily. Unlike some other anti-anxiety medications, it's not a controlled substance. Some common side effects of buspirone include dizziness, nausea, headache, and nervousness. The brand name Buspar is no longer available.

  • Indications of Vistaril vs. Buspar

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

  • Pros and Cons of Vistaril vs. Buspar

    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 Antianxiety
    Pros
    •Much lower risk for dependency and withdrawal symptoms than other anti-anxiety medications
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can be taken by children as young as 6 years old
    •Can cut tablets if needed
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice treatment option for anxiety
    •Not for quick relief of anxiety or panic attacks
    •Can take a few weeks to fully kick in
    •Typically taken twice a day
    •Interacts with many medications and grapefruit juice

  • Common Side Effects of Vistaril vs. Buspar

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dry mouth
    •Headache
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (12%)
    •Drowsiness (10%)
    •Nausea (8%)
    •Headache (6%)
    •Nervousness (5%)

  • Warnings of Vistaril vs. Buspar

    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
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Withdrawal symptoms from stopping other anxiety medications
    •Don't take with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

  • Prices with our coupons for Vistaril vs. Buspar

    Learn more about Hydroxyzine pamoate
    Learn more about Buspirone

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