What is Vistaril?
Vistaril is a prescription sedative used to treat anxiety, swelling, and hives on the scalp. It is also used for preoperative sedation. Vistaril can be used alone or with other medications.
Vistaril Uses
Vistaril is used to relieve itching caused by allergies. It’s an antihistamine that prevents the body from producing histamine during an allergic reaction. Hydroxyzine, the active ingredient, is also used for short-term anxiety relief and to make you comfortable before and after surgery.
How to Take Vistaril
Take Vistaril by mouth three or four times daily, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. The dosage depends on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. For children, dosage is also based on weight. Do not take this drug in larger amounts or more often than prescribed. If your condition does not improve or worsens, contact your doctor.
Vistaril Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
Serious Side Effects:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Hives, itching, or skin rash
- Shortness of breath
- Severe sleepiness
- Trembling or shaking
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Vomiting
If you experience any of these serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions
Before taking Vistaril, inform your doctor if you have any allergies or medical history, particularly:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Stomach ulcer
- Abdominal pain
- Respiratory difficulties (e.g.,asthma, emphysema)
- High eye pressure (glaucoma)
- High blood pressure
- Epilepsy
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
Vistaril can cause a heart rhythm disorder (QT prolongation). This can lead to severe (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms like extreme dizziness and fainting. If you have conditions or take medications that might induce QT prolongation, the risk may be increased.
Interactions
Drug interactions can alter the effectiveness of Vistaril or increase the risk of serious side effects. Inform your doctor if you are taking:
- Opioid pain relievers (e.g., codeine, hydrocodone)
- Alcohol
- Marijuana (cannabis)
- Sleep or anxiety medications (e.g., alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem)
- Muscle relaxants (e.g., carisoprodol)
- Other antihistamines
Overdose
If you or someone else has taken too much Vistaril and has serious symptoms like passing out or trouble breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness, fainting, seizures, and fast heartbeat.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children. Do not store in the bathroom. Dispose of expired or unused medication properly.
Vistaril vs. Diazepam
| Vistaril | Diazepam |
|---|---|
| Molar mass: 374.904 g/mol | Molar mass: 284.7 g/mol |
| Formula: C21H27ClN2O2 | Formula: C16H13ClN2O |
| Brand name: Atarax | Brand name: Valium |
| Antihistamine medication | Benzodiazepine family |
| Treats anxiety, swelling, hives, and preoperative sedation | Treats anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal, benzodiazepine withdrawal, muscle spasms, insomnia, restless legs syndrome |
