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Hydroxyzine Pamoate Coupon - Hydroxyzine Pamoate 25mg capsule

hydroxyzine pamoate

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

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.

Last reviewed on November 21, 2024
basics-icon

What is Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)?

What is Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) used for?

How Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) works

Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) 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 called serotonin.

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

Drug Facts

Common BrandsVistaril
Drug ClassAntihistamine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) essentials

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What are the side effects of Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)?

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 pamoate (Vistaril) 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 pamoate (Vistaril)

thumbs-up

Pros

Helps relieve itching and anxiety within 30 minutes

An option for children

Taken by mouth

thumbs-down

Cons

Sleepiness and dizziness are common side effects

Might need to take up to 4 times a day

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)

pharmacist
  • Swallow hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) capsules whole. You can take them with or without food. If it hurts your stomach, try taking it with food to help.

    • Don't take other antihistamines while taking hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril). 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).

      • Dry mouth is a common side effect of hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril). Some things you can do to help with the dry mouth include sucking on ice, chewing gum, or rinsing your mouth with cold water. There are also mouthwashes, sprays, and lozenges available that can help manage this side effect.

        • If you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, talk with your obstetrician-gynecologist(OB-GYN). Animal studies suggest that hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) 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 pamoate (Vistaril) while breastfeeding. There's limited information about how hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) might affect breast milk or nursing infants.

            More on Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) tips

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)

            How long does hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) take to work and how long does it last?
            Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) starts to work within 30 minutes after a dose. But it can take about 2 hours before you feel the full effects of the medication. The effects of hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) might last up to 6 hours after a dose, which is why it's sometimes prescribed up to four times per day. Talk with your healthcare team if you have more questions about what to expect after taking this medication.
            Can I take hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) and melatonin together?
            Don't take hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) with melatonin without first speaking with a healthcare professional (HCP). Melatonin is a supplement that's used to help with sleep problems. In general, it's not recommended for you to take hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) with medications that can cause sleepiness, like melatonin, because doing so can worsen this side effect. Talk with your HCP if you have other concerns about taking hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) with melatonin.
            Does hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) make you sleepy?
            Yes, sleepiness is a common side effect of hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril). 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 pamoate (Vistaril) is making you too sleepy.
            Does hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) cause weight gain?
            While some antihistamines can raise the risk of weight gain, this isn't a common side effect with hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril). But more research is needed to understand how hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) might affect body weight. Talk with your healthcare team if you have more concerns about hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) and weight gain.
            What's the difference between hydroxyzine pamoate and hydroxyzine hydrochloride (HCl)?
            The main difference between hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) and hydroxyzine hydrochloride (Atarax) is their dosage forms. Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) is available as a capsule whereas hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) comes as a tablet and oral liquid. If you're having trouble swallowing capsules, your prescriber might consider hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) for you instead because it comes as a liquid that might be easier to take
            Is hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) a controlled substance?
            No, hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) isn't a controlled substance because it doesn't have a risk of addiction (habit-forming) or dependence.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)?

            Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) 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 pamoate (Vistaril) 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 pamoate (Vistaril) 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

                Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) can affect your heart rhythm, which can be serious and life-threatening. One example includes lengthening the time period from when the heart pumps and then relaxes. This is known as QT prolongation. Your risk is higher if you have certain factors, including abnormal electrolyte levels, heart rhythm problems, or are taking other medications that cause heart rhythm problems, such as amiodarone (Pacerone) and ciprofloxacin (Cipro), among others. To lower your risk, your psychiatrist or primary care provider might periodically monitor your heart and perform electrocardiograms (EKGs) to make sure your heart rhythm is normal. If you feel your chest pounding, have shortness of breath, have chest pain, or feel faint or lightheaded while taking hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril), call 911 right away.

                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 pamoate (Vistaril). 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 pamoate (Vistaril).

                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 pamoate (Vistaril). These reactions can be life-threatening and include facial swelling, hives, and anaphylaxis (e.g., closing of the throat). If you notice dizziness; a 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 pamoate (Vistaril), get medical attention right away.

                  In addition, although rare, hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) 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 pamoate (Vistaril) to treat, stop this medication and contact your prescriber right away.

                  dosage

                  Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 60 capsules of 25mg of Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) is $11.47 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 58.2% off the average retail price of $27.43.
                  capsule
                  Capsule
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  25mg60 capsules$11.47$0.19
                  50mg90 capsules$16.61$0.18
                  100mg90 capsules$36.32$0.40

                  Typical dosing for Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)

                  • 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 pamoate (Vistaril) dosage forms

                  interactions

                  Interactions between Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) and other drugs

                  Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) 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 pamoate (Vistaril). 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 pamoate (Vistaril) 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 pamoate (Vistaril) will not be safe for you to take.
                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)
                  Used for:
                  $11.47 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Used for:
                  • Allergies

                  • Common cold symptoms

                  • Trouble sleeping for people 12 years and older

                  $1.20 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Used for:
                  • Anxiety

                  $8.52 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  latest news

                  What is the latest news about Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)?

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                  Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) images

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                  This medicine is Green Capsule Imprinted With "Ix 657".Green Ix 657 - Hydroxyzine Pamoate 25mg Capsule
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                  This medicine is Green Capsule Imprinted With "Ep136 Ep136".Green Ep136 Ep136 - Hydroxyzine Pamoate 25mg Capsule
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                  This medicine is Green Capsule Imprinted With "Ep136 Ep136".Green Ep136 Ep136 - Hydroxyzine Pamoate 25mg Capsule

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

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

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

                  Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc. (2024). Vistaril- hydroxyzine pamoate capsule [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  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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