Vistaril

Vistaril Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Vistaril is a brand name. Its generic name is Hydroxyzine.

Vistaril: Introduction

Vistaril is an antihistamine best known for its use in the treatment of allergies, hay fever, and itching caused by skin irritations. It is also used to treat anxiety disorders and some of the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as tremors and seizures. It can also be used to reduce nausea and vomiting.

Uses For

Vistaril is commonly used for the following conditions:
  • Allergies and hay fever
  • Itching and hives due to skin irritation
  • Anxiety
  • Alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as trembling and seizures
  • Nausea and vomiting

Mechanism of Action

Vistaril works by blocking the action of histamine in the body. Histamine is a chemical released during the allergic response and is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with allergies and other conditions. By blocking its action, hydroxyzine is able to reduce the symptoms.

How Long Does It Take to Work

Vistaril begins to work in as little as 30 minutes and its effects can last up to 6 hours.

Absorption

Vistaril is absorbed quickly and readily when taken orally. It can also be absorbed through the skin if applied topically.

Route of Elimination

Vistaril is eliminated primarily through the kidneys.

Dosage

The dosage of hydroxyzine will vary depending on the condition being treated, the patient’s age and weight, and the dosage form being used (tablet, syrup, injectable, etc.). Typical adult doses range from 10 mg to 100 mg, taken three or four times a day. Children between the ages of 6 and 12 are typically prescribed doses range from 5 mg to 25 mg, taken three or four times a day.

Administration

Vistaril can be taken orally in the form of a tablet, capsule, syrup, or injection. It can also be applied topically in the form of a cream, lotion, or ointment.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of hydroxyzine include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, nausea, and fatigue. More serious side effects include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, or throat.

Toxicity

Vistaril has a low risk of toxicity when taken as directed. However, if too much hydroxyzine is taken, poisoning may occur. Symptoms of hydroxyzine overdose include confusion, drowsiness, seizures, and slow or labored breathing.

Precautions

Patients should not take hydroxyzine if they have narrow angle glaucoma, a history of heart problems, or if they are pregnant or nursing. Patients who are taking any other medications should consult their doctor before taking hydroxyzine.

Interactions

Vistaril may interact with other medications, such as blood pressure medications, sedatives, antidepressants, antifungals, and drugs that suppress the immune system.

Disease Interaction

Vistaril is not recommended for use in patients with heart failure, narrow angle glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate.

Drug Interactions

Vistaril may interact with other medications, such as blood pressure medications, sedatives, antidepressants, antifungals, and drugs that suppress the immune system.

Food Interactions

Vistaril may interact with food, alcohol, or tobacco. Patients should avoid drinking alcohol while taking hydroxyzine.

Pregnancy Use

Vistaril is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as its effects on an unborn baby are unknown.

Lactation Use

Vistaril should not be used by nursing mothers, as it can pass into breast milk and harm the baby.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose of hydroxyzine is suspected, medical attention should be sought immediately. Symptoms of overdose include confusion, drowsiness, seizures, and slow or labored breathing.

Contraindication

Vistaril is contraindicated in patients with heart failure, narrow angle glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate.

Use Direction

Vistaril should be taken according to the directions provided by the physician. The dosage will vary depending on the condition being treated, age, and weight of the patient.

Storage Condition

Vistaril should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

Vistaril has an apparent volume of distribution of 1.25 L/kg.

Half Life

The half life of hydroxyzine is approximately 10 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of hydroxyzine is approximately 0.7 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Vistaril

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Vistaril

What is Vistaril?

Vistaril is an antihistamine medication used to treat symptoms of allergies, anxiety, or nausea and vomiting. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

What is Vistaril Used For?

Vistaril is used to treat allergies, anxiety, or nausea and vomiting. It is also used to treat itching caused by certain allergic conditions.

How Does Vistaril Work?

Vistaril works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Histamine can cause itching, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and other symptoms of allergies.

How is Vistaril Administered?

Vistaril can be taken by mouth in pill form or as a syrup. It can also be administered as an injection.

What are the Possible Side Effects of Vistaril?

The most common side effects of hydroxyzine include drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Other possible side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Are There Any Drug Interactions With Vistaril?

Yes, hydroxyzine may interact with certain drugs. Before taking hydroxyzine, speak to your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications you are taking.

What is the Recommended Dosage of Vistaril?

The recommended dosage of hydroxyzine depends on the condition being treated and the patient’s age and weight. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for specific dosing instructions.

How Often Should I Take Vistaril?

The frequency of hydroxyzine depends on the condition being treated and the patient’s age and weight. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions.

Is Vistaril Safe to Take When Pregnant?

The safety of hydroxyzine when used during pregnancy is not known. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking hydroxyzine if you are pregnant.

Can Vistaril Cause Weight Gain?

Weight gain is not a common side effect of hydroxyzine. If you experience any changes in your weight while taking hydroxyzine, speak to your doctor.

What are the Common Side Effects of Vistaril?

The most common side effects of hydroxyzine include drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Other possible side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Can Vistaril be Taken with Other Medications?

Yes, hydroxyzine can be taken with other medications. However, some medications may interact with hydroxyzine, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking hydroxyzine.

Can I Take Vistaril For Long Term Use?

Yes, hydroxyzine can be taken for long term use. However, if you are taking hydroxyzine for a long period of time, it is important to speak with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking the medication.

How Should I Store Vistaril?

Vistaril should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light. Keep the medication in a safe place where children and pets cannot access it.

Is Vistaril Addictive?

No, hydroxyzine is not addictive. However, some people can become psychologically dependent on medications, so it is important to speak to your doctor if you are concerned about psychological dependence.

What Signs or Symptoms Should I Report to My Doctor?

If you experience any unusual or worsening symptoms while taking hydroxyzine, such as nausea, vomiting, headache, or drowsiness, contact your doctor or pharmacist. It is important to speak with your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking hydroxyzine.

What Should I Avoid While Taking Vistaril?

While taking hydroxyzine, it is important to avoid alcohol, as it can increase the side effects of the medication. It is also important to avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel drowsy.

What Should I Do if I Miss a Dose of Vistaril?

If you miss a dose of hydroxyzine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule.

Are There Alternatives to Vistaril?

Yes, there are other medications available to treat allergies, anxiety, or nausea and vomiting. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist to determine what other medications are appropriate for your condition.

Is Vistaril Safe For Children and Adolescents?

Yes, hydroxyzine is safe for children and adolescents. However, the dosage of hydroxyzine is determined by age and weight, so it is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist for proper dosing instructions.

Can I Take Vistaril With Other Allergy Medications?

Yes, hydroxyzine can be taken with other allergy medications. However, it is important to speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medications to make sure that there are no interactions between the medications.

Can I Take Vistaril If I Have Asthma?

Yes, hydroxyzine can be taken if you have asthma. However, it is important to speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medications to make sure that there are no interactions between them.

What If I Overdose On Vistaril?

If you think you may have overdosed on hydroxyzine, contact your doctor or local poison control center immediately. Signs of an overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, and seizures.

Are There Any Herbal or Natural Alternatives to Vistaril?

Yes, there are some herbs and supplements that may be helpful in treating the symptoms of allergies, anxiety, or nausea and vomiting. However, it is important to speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbal or natural remedies, as they can interact with medications.

What Should I Do If I get Hives With Vistaril?

If you get hives while taking hydroxyzine, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. It is important to stop taking the medication and follow your doctor’s instructions.

Can Vistaril be Used to Treat Insomnia?

No, hydroxyzine is not typically used to treat insomnia. Speak to your doctor if you have trouble sleeping, as there may be other medications or treatments available that may help you sleep better.

Can Vistaril be Used to Treat Migraines?

No, hydroxyzine is not typically used to treat migraines. Speak to your doctor if you have migraines, as there are other medications or treatments available that may help reduce the severity and frequency of your migraines.

Can I Take NSAIDs While Taking Vistaril?

No, it is not recommended to take NSAIDs while taking hydroxyzine, as there may be an increased risk of side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you need to take NSAIDs along with hydroxyzine.

Does Vistaril Have Any Interaction With Other Drugs?

Yes, hydroxyzine may interact with certain other medications. Before taking hydroxyzine, speak to your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications you are taking.

Can Vistaril Cause Diarrhea?

Yes, diarrhea can be a side effect of hydroxyzine. If you experience diarrhea while taking hydroxyzine, it is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on how to manage the side effect.

Can I Take Vistaril With Antidepressants?

Yes, it is safe to take hydroxyzine with antidepressants. However, some medications may interact with hydroxyzine, so it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking hydroxyzine.

What Should I Do If I Miss Too Many Doses of Vistaril?

If you miss too many doses of hydroxyzine, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may recommend a new dosing schedule or other treatment.

Does Vistaril Have Any Interaction With Antibiotics?

Yes, some antibiotics may interact with hydroxyzine. It is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any antibiotics before taking hydroxyzine.

Can I Take Vistaril While Breastfeeding?

Yes, hydroxyzine can be taken while breastfeeding. However, it is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist to determine if hydroxyzine is the best medication for you while breastfeeding.

Can I Take Vistaril If I Have High Blood Pressure?

Yes, hydroxyzine can be taken if you have high blood pressure. However, it is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist to determine if hydroxyzine is the best medication for you.

What Should I Do If I Experience Severe Drowsiness with Vistaril?

If you experience severe drowsiness while taking hydroxyzine, it is important to contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor may recommend a lower dose or a different medication.

Can I Take Vistaril with Other Anti-Anxiety Medications?

Yes, hydroxyzine can be taken with other anti-anxiety medications. However, it is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medications to make sure that there are no interactions between the medications.

Can I Take Antihistamines While Taking Vistaril?

No, it is not recommended to take antihistamines while taking hydroxyzine, as there may be an increased risk of side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you need to take antihistamines along with hydroxyzine.

Is Vistaril Safe For Elderly Patients?

Yes, hydroxyzine is safe for elderly patients. However, the dosage of hydroxyzine should be adjusted based on the patient's age and weight, so it is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist for proper dosing instructions.

Does Vistaril Have Any Interaction With Narcotic Pain Medications?

Yes, there may be an increased risk of side effects if you take hydroxyzine with narcotic pain medications. It is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any narcotic pain medications before taking hydroxyzine.