Brand Name
Atarax
Common Name
hydroxyzine
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 00024694 | ATARAX 2MG/ML SYRUP |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Hydroxyzine belongs to the class of medications called antihistamines. It is used for the treatment of itching caused by allergic conditions. It is also used for the management of anxiety and tension caused by situations such as dental procedures or acute emotional problems. Hydroxyzine is also used to control nausea and vomiting (except in pregnancy).
Hydroxyzine works by blocking the actions of one of the body's natural chemicals known as histamine. Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms seen when an allergic reaction occurs. The calming effects of hydroxyzine result from its sedating side effect.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of hydroxyzine when taken by mouth ranges from 25 mg
to 100 mg three or four times a day.
For children under six years of age, the daily dose when taken by mouth is
30 mg to 50 mg in divided doses. For children over six years of age,
the daily dose is 50 mg to 100 mg in divided doses.
Hydroxyzine may be taken with or without food.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones above, do not change the
way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your
doctor. If you forget a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember.
If it is less than two hours until your next scheduled dose, take the medication
right away and then wait two hours before taking the next dose. Then go back
to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double-up on doses.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Each 5 mL of mint-flavoured syrup contains hydroxyzine HCl 10 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: alcohol, hydrochloric acid (for pH adjustment), menthol, peppermint oil, sodium benzoate 1.5 mg, spearmint oil, sucrose and water. Energy: 67 kJ (16 kcal). Tartrazine-free.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Hydroxyzine should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to hydroxyzine or any of the ingredients of the medication
- is in early pregnancy
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