Hydroxyzine
Also sold as: Atarax
Prescription neededAllergy medicines (antihistamines)
Comes as:TabletSyrup
Usual adult dose
Usual adult dose for itching: 25 mg up to 3 times a day, often started at night. Do not take more than 100 mg a day (50 mg a day in elderly people).
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- drowsiness
- dry mouth
- headache
- tiredness
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- fast or irregular heartbeat or fainting (heart rhythm problem)
- fits
- severe skin rash with fever
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Heart rhythm problems (long QT) or low potassium
- Early pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Glaucoma or difficulty passing urine
- Do not drive or use machines if drowsy; avoid alcohol
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Serious2 medicinesDo not take these together unless your doctor says so.
- Amiodarone
Both prolong the QT interval; the combination should be avoided.
- Citalopram