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Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride Coupon - Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride 25mg tablet

hydroxyzine hydrochloride

Generic Atarax
Used for Itching, Anxiety, Sedation, Hives
Used for Itching, Anxiety, Sedation, Hives

Hydroxyzine hydrochloride (Atarax) is a prescription antihistamine for adults and children. It's used to treat anxiety and to ease itching from allergies. It's also used as a sleep aid (sedative) before and after general anesthesia. Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) comes as tablet and oral solution that are taken by mouth up to 4 times per day. Common side effects include sleepiness and dry mouth.

Last reviewed on November 20, 2024
basics-icon

What is Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)?

What is Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) used for?

How Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) works

Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) is a first-generation antihistamine. It treats itching by blocking a natural chemical in your body called histamine. Additionally, it treats anxiety by affecting another chemical in the brain called serotonin.

Are you looking for information on hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) instead?
When does Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAtarax (brand no longer available)
Drug ClassAntihistamine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) essentials

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What are the side effects of Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Other Side Effects

  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Trouble urinating
  • Blurred vision

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Excessive sleepiness or dizziness
  • Abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation): chest pounding, irregular heart beat, chest pain, short of breath, feeling faint or lightheaded
  • Serious allergic reactions: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Serious skin reaction: fever, rash or small blisters on skin
When do Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Drowsiness
Dry mouth

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common or rare

Less common or rare with azatadine, cetirizine, clemastine, cyproheptadine, desloratadine, dexchlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine, or loratadine

Abdominal or stomach pain

burning

chills

clay-colored stools or dark urine

cough

diarrhea

difficulty swallowing

dizziness

fast or irregular heartbeat

fever

headache

hives

itching

prickly sensations

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips or tongue

redness of skin

seizures

shortness of breath

skin rash

swelling

tightness in chest

tingling

unusual tiredness or weakness

wheezing

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common or rare

Sore throat

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

Symptoms of overdose

Clumsiness or unsteadiness

convulsions (seizures)

drowsiness (severe)

dryness of mouth, nose, or throat (severe)

feeling faint

flushing or redness of face

hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there)

shortness of breath or troubled breathing

trouble in sleeping

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Drowsiness

dry mouth, nose, or throat

gastrointestinal upset, stomach pain, or nausea

headache

increased appetite and weight gain

thickening of mucus

Less common or rare

Acid or sour stomach

belching

blurred vision or any change in vision

body aches or pain

clumsiness or unsteadiness

confusion (not with diphenhydramine)

congestion

constipation

cough

diarrhea

difficult or painful urination

difficulty in moving

difficult or painful menstruation

dizziness (not with brompheniramine or hydroxyzine)

drowsiness (with high doses of desloratadine and loratadine)

dryness of mouth, nose, or throat

early menstruation

fast heartbeat

fever

heartburn

hoarseness

increased sensitivity of skin to sun

increased sweating

indigestion

loss of appetite

joint pain

muscle aching or cramping

muscle pains or stiffness

nausea

nightmares (not with azatadine, chlorpheniramine, cyproheptadine, desloratadine, hydroxyzine, or loratadine)

ringing or buzzing in ears

runny nose

skin rash

swollen joints

stomach discomfort, upset or pain

tender swollen glands in neck

tremor

unusual excitement, nervousness, restlessness, or irritability

vomiting

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)

thumbs-up

Pros

Starts to work within 30 minutes

Available as a tablet and a liquid that are taken by mouth

Can use in children

thumbs-down

Cons

Available by prescription only

Might need to take up to 4 times per day

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)

pharmacist
  • Antihistamines are commonly found in many over-the-counter products. Don't take other antihistamines while taking hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax). Doing so can raise your risk of taking too much medication (overdose). This can lead to severe side effects, including seizures and hallucinations (seeing things that aren't real).

    • Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) can cause dry mouth as a side effect. If this bothers you, sipping cool liquids, chewing gum, or rinsing your mouth with cold water can help. Also, ask your healthcare team about different forms of saliva substitutes, such as mouthwashes or sprays, that might help.

      • If you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, talk with your obstetrician-gynecologist(OB-GYN). Animal studies suggest that hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) can cause harm during early pregnancy. Your OB-GYN can talk with you about safer options for your condition.

        • Talk to your prescriber about the risks and benefits of taking hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) while breastfeeding. There's limited information about how hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) might affect breast milk or nursing infants.

          More on Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) tips

          faqs

          Frequently asked questions about Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)

          How long does hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) take to work and how long does it last?
          Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) starts to work within 30 minutes after a dose. But you might not feel the full effects of this medication until 2 hours later. The effects of hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) might last up to 6 hours after a dose. Talk with your healthcare team if you have more questions about what to expect after taking this medication.
          Can I take hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) and melatonin together?
          It's best to avoid taking hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) with melatonin unless directed by your healthcare team. Melatonin is a supplement that can help you sleep. And drowsiness is one of the more common side effects of hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax). In general, you're recommended to avoid taking hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) with other medications that can worsen sleepiness because doing so can make you feel less alert the next day. Talk with your HCP if you have other concerns about taking hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) with melatonin.
          Does hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) make you sleepy?
          Yes, sleepiness is a common side effect of hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax). This side effect might be more severe for older adults or people who are taking other medications that can also cause drowsiness. Don't drive or do anything that requires concentration until you know how this medication affects you. Contact your prescriber if hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) is making you too sleepy.
          Does hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) cause weight gain?
          While some antihistamines can raise the risk of weight gain, this isn't a common side effect with hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax). But more research is needed to understand how hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) might affect body weight. Talk with your healthcare team if you have more concerns about hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) and weight gain.
          What's the difference between hydroxyzine hydrochloride (HCl) and hydroxyzine pamoate?
          The main difference between hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) and hydroxyzine hydrochloride (Atarax) is what form they come in. Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) is available as a tablet and oral solution. But hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) is only available as a capsule. If you're having trouble swallowing hydroxyzine pills, your prescriber might consider hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) oral solution for you instead.
          Is hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) the same as alprazolam (Xanax)?
          No. Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) and alprazolam (Xanax) aren't the same. While they're both FDA-approved to treat anxiety, they work in different ways. Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) is an antihistamine that helps with anxiety by affecting serotonin levels in the brain. Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine that affects a different chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In addition, alprazolam (Xanax) is a controlled substance, whereas hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) isn't. Talk to your healthcare provider (HCP) if you have specific questions about either medication.
          Is hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) the same as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)?
          Both hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are first-generation antihistamines, but they're not the same. Both medications can treat itching and help with sleep. But only hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) is approved to treat anxiety by acting on serotonin in the brain. Another difference is diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is available over the counter, whereas hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) is by prescription-only. Talk to your HCP if you have more questions on the differences between both medications.
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          What are the risks and warnings for Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)?

          Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

          risk-warning

          Sleepiness

          • Risk factors: Alcohol use | Taking other medications that cause sleepiness | Age 65 or older

            Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) can make you very sleepy, which can affect your ability to focus, think, or react. This side effect is more likely to happen or be more intense if you're 65 years or older, drink alcohol while taking this medication, or take other medications that cause sleepiness (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines, sleep medications, alcohol). Don't drive or operate machinery until you know how hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) affects you.

            risk-warning

            Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)

            • Risk factors: Low blood potassium or magnesium levels | Older age | Kidney problems | Heart or heart rhythm problems | Taking other medications that can cause heart rhythm problems

              Though rare, people who took hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) have reported heart rhythm problems, like QT prolongation. In most cases, they were already at higher risk for this problem because of existing heart conditions or conditions that affected their electrolyte levels. Your healthcare team might check in with you more often if you're taking other medications that can affect your heart rhythm, such as certain antipsychotics or certain antibiotics. Most of the time, people who have QT prolongation don't experience any symptoms. But get medical help right away if you feel your chest pounding, have shortness of breath or chest pain, or feel faint or lightheaded.

              risk-warning

              Higher risk of side effects in people over 65

              People aged 65 years and older experience more side effects when taking antihistamine medications like hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax). Because of this, your healthcare team will have you start with a lower dose of hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) and raise your dose slowly over time. Watch out for changes in vision, severe dry mouth, trouble urinating, or constipation. Also, feelings of drowsiness can leave you unsteady on your feet, which can lead to accidental falls and injuries. Talk with your primary care provider about your risk for side effects before taking hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax).

              risk-warning

              Severe allergic and skin reactions

              • Risk factors: Allergy to cetirizine (Zyrtec) or levocetirizine (Xyzal)

                Some people have experienced a severe allergic reaction to hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax). These reactions can be life-threatening and include facial swelling, hives, and anaphylaxis (e.g., closing of the throat). If you notice dizziness; fast heartbeat; a choking sensation; difficulty breathing; swelling around your eyes, lips, or tongue; or any signs of a severe skin reaction after taking hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax), get medical attention right away.

                In addition, although rare, hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) can cause a serious skin reaction that looks like a rash and small blisters usually on the face or on skin folds. It can sometimes occur with a fever. If you notice a rash or worsening of other skin reactions that you're using hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) to treat, stop this medication and contact your prescriber right away. They might ask you to consider other options to treat your condition.

                dosage

                Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) dosage forms

                The average cost for 30 tablets of 25mg of Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) is $5.70 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 63.07% off the average retail price of $15.44.
                ml of oral solution
                Ml of oral solution
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                10mg/5ml150 ml$25.25$0.17
                ml of syrup
                Ml of syrup
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                10mg/5ml150 ml$21.13$0.14
                tablet
                Tablet
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                10mg30 tablets$4.80$0.16
                25mg30 tablets$5.70$0.19
                50mg90 tablets$15.60$0.17
                vial
                Vial
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                1ml of 25mg/ml10 vials$81.46$8.15
                1ml of 50mg/ml1 vial$15.09$15.09
                2ml of 50mg/ml1 vial$25.68$25.68
                10ml of 50mg/ml1 vial$110.40$110.40

                Typical dosing for Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)

                Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) comes as a tablet and an oral solution.

                • Anxiety

                  • Age 18 years and older: The typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg by mouth four times daily.

                  • Age 6 years and older: The typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg by mouth per day, split up into smaller doses and taken throughout the day.

                  • Age under 6 years: The typical dose is 50 mg by mouth per day, split up into smaller doses and taken throughout the day.

                • Itching

                  • Age 18 years and older: The typical dose is 25 mg by mouth three to four times per day.

                  • Age 6 years and older: The typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg by mouth per day, split up into smaller doses and taken throughout the day.

                  • Age under 6 years: The typical dose is 50 mg by mouth per day, split up into smaller doses and taken throughout the day.

                • Sedative

                  • Age 18 years and older: The typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg, as directed by the healthcare team.

                  • Age under 18 years: Your healthcare team will determine the dose based on body weight. The typical dose is 0.6 mg/kg by mouth, as directed by the care team.

                More on Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) dosage forms

                interactions

                Interactions between Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) and other drugs

                Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking any of these medicines, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

                Using medicines in this class with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with a medication in this class or change some of the other medicines you take.

                Using medicines in this class with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                contraindications-icon

                Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) contraindications

                Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) will not be safe for you to take.
                alternatives

                What are alternatives to Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)?

                There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)
                Used for:
                $4.80 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                Used for:
                • Allergies

                • Common cold symptoms

                • Trouble sleeping for people 12 years and older

                $3.01 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                Used for:
                • Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (e.g., runny nose; sneezing; itching of the nose or throat; itchy, watery eyes)

                $23.48 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                latest news

                What is the latest news about Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax)?

                images

                Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) images

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                References

                Best studies we found

                Apozeal Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2024). Hydroxyzine hydrochloride solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Chartwell RX, LLC. (2024). Hydroxyzine hydrochloride tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Drug and Lactation Database (LactMed®). (2024). Hydroxyzine. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

                View All References (1)

                Moore, M. J., et al. (2023). Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. StatPearls.

                GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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