HYDROXYZINE

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative properties that is used to treat allergic reactions. The body releases histamine during several types of allergic reactions and--to a lesser extent--during some viral infections, such as the common cold. When histamine binds to its receptors on cells, it causes the cells to release chemical messengers that lead to sneezing, itching, and increased mucus production. Antihistamines, like histamine, binds to the histamine receptors, but when they bind to the receptors they do not stimulate the cells to release chemical messengers. In addition, they prevent histamine from binding and stimulating the cells.


Before taking hydroxyzine
Need to know if have any of these conditions:
• any chronic illness
• diabetes
• difficulty passing urine
• glaucoma
• heart disease
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• lung disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to hydroxyzine, cetirizine, other medicines,
foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
Hydroxyzine side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using hydroxyzine and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
• restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck;
• tremor (uncontrolled shaking);
• confusion; or
• seizure (convulsions).
Less serious hydroxyzine side effects may include:
• dizziness, drowsiness;
• blurred vision, dry mouth; or
• headache.