Hydroxyzine, Vistaril
Antiemetic; Histamine H1 Antagonist
Brand Name US: Vistaril
Brand Name Canada: Atarax
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
Hydroxyzine, Vistaril competes with histamine for H1-receptor sites on effector cells in the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels, and respiratory tract. Hydroxyzine, Vistaril exhibit muscle relaxation, bronchodilator, antihistamine, antiemetic, and analgesic properties.
Indications For Use
Allergic reactions, antiemetic, anxiety
Precautions
Before starting Hydroxyzine, Vistaril makes sure your physician is aware of any allergies and medications you currently take. There are a few rare adverse events that have occurred with Hydroxyzine, Vistaril including acute generalized exanthematous, drowsiness and QT prolongation.
Usual Dosing
Oral: 25mg to 100mg 4 times daily.
Intramuscular Injection: Inject 25mg to 100mg.
Pharmacist Tips On Using
How to Take:
Oral: Take with or without food.
Intramuscular Injection: Aspirate before injection to avoid inadvertent injection into a blood vessel. Do NOT administer IV, SubQ, or intra-arterially (contraindicated). Administer IM deep in the large muscle. The preferred site is the upper outer quadrant of the buttock or mid-lateral thigh. The upper outer quadrant of the gluteal region should be used only when necessary to minimize potential damage to the sciatic nerve. The deltoid region should be only used with caution to avoid radial nerve injury. Injections should not be made in the lower or mid-third of the upper arm.
Side Effects
The incidence of side effects has not been well defined, however, drowsiness, xerostomia, and respiratory depression (high doses) have been observed.
Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Hydroxyzine, Vistaril only common one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if side effects are intolerable?
If side effects are causing a lot of distress speak to your physician as soon as possible to discuss options.