Generic Hydroxyzine

Common Use
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine used to treat anxiety, nausea, allergies, itching, and sleep disorders. It is also used as a sedative before or after general anesthesia. It works by blocking histamine receptors and suppressing activity in the central nervous system, providing both anti-allergic and calming effects.

Dosage and Direction
Hydroxyzine is taken orally (tablet, capsule, or liquid) or by injection, depending on the condition being treated. Doses vary: for anxiety, typical oral doses are 25–100 mg daily in divided doses; for itching or allergies, 10–25 mg several times a day. Follow your doctor’s directions and avoid alcohol or other sedatives while taking it.

Precautions
Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, heart disease, liver/kidney impairment, or respiratory problems. Hydroxyzine may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery. Use caution in elderly patients, as they may be more sensitive to its effects.

Contraindications
Hydroxyzine is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug or related substances (like cetirizine or levocetirizine). It should not be used during early pregnancy or in patients with prolonged QT interval on ECG.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, and blurred vision. Serious but rare effects include confusion, seizures, or heart rhythm disturbances. Seek medical help if you experience irregular heartbeat or difficulty breathing.

Drug Interaction
Hydroxyzine may enhance the effects of CNS depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, and sleep aids. Avoid combining with other drugs that prolong the QT interval. Always inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible unless it’s close to the next dose. Do not double up. Stick to your prescribed schedule.

Overdose
Symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, vomiting, confusion, tremor, or seizures. In severe cases, respiratory depression or coma may occur. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep the medication in its original container, out of reach of children.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)