Hydroxyzine
Atarax is the only hydroxyzine product on this shelf, available in 10 mg and 25 mg tablets. It is a sedating antihistamine used for generalised anxiety and itching.
Key points
- Drowsiness is common enough that the label warns against driving or operating machinery while taking Atarax.
- Older patients should start at the lower end of the dose range, because reduced liver, kidney or heart function makes the sedating effect more pronounced.
- A previous reaction to hydroxyzine means Atarax is not suitable.
How does Hydroxyzine work?
Hydroxyzine blocks histamine at the H1 receptor, the same signal that triggers itching and swelling in an allergic response. Because it also crosses into the brain and dampens activity there, it produces sedation and a calming effect that makes it useful for Generalised Anxiety Disorder as well as for pruritus.
That sedation is the reason the driving warning exists. It is also why dose caution matters more in older patients, whose bodies clear the drug more slowly and who are more sensitive to its effect on alertness.
Further reading
What is hydroxyzine used for?
Hydroxyzine is a sedating antihistamine used for generalised anxiety and itching. It is also used for preoperative sedation.
How does hydroxyzine work in the body?
Hydroxyzine blocks histamine at the H1 receptor, which is the same signal that triggers itching and swelling in an allergic response. It also crosses into the brain, where it dampens activity and produces sedation and a calming effect.
How long does hydroxyzine take to work?
Hydroxyzine takes about 15 to 30 minutes to start working. Its effect lasts around 4 to 6 hours.
What are the side effects of hydroxyzine?
Common side effects of hydroxyzine include drowsiness, dry mouth and fatigue. Headache, blurred vision and urinary retention can also occur, and serious effects such as QT prolongation and torsades de pointes need immediate medical attention. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are worried about any side effect.
Can hydroxyzine be taken with alcohol?
Hydroxyzine interacts with alcohol. It also interacts with QT-prolonging drugs and CNS depressants, so ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking it with alcohol or other medicines.
Which hydroxyzine products does Direct Meds sell?
On Direct Meds, hydroxyzine comes as Atarax. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How much does hydroxyzine cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is hydroxyzine available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order hydroxyzine. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy hydroxyzine online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →