About Atarax: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects
Atarax is a brand name for the generic medicine hydroxyzine, which belongs to the antihistamine class of drugs. Antihistamines operate by inhibiting the action of histamine, a natural chemical in the body that triggers allergic reactions. Atarax has numerous applications, dosage forms, and adverse effects, which are listed below.
Uses
Atarax is used to treat the following conditions:
- To relieve itching caused by allergies, hives, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin diseases.
- To relieve anxiety and tension, particularly before or after surgery.
- To augment the effects of other anaesthetic medicines.
Dosage
Atarax is available in a variety of dosage forms, including pills, capsules, syrup, and drops. The dosage is determined by the patient's age, weight, medical condition, and response. The typical dosages are as follows:
- For itching, adults should take 25 mg three or four times per day; children should take 0.6 mg per kg of body weight per day in divided doses.
- For anxiety, adults should take 50 to 100 mg four times a day; children should take 0.6 mg per kg of body weight per day in divided doses.
- Adults: 50 to 100 mg one hour before surgery; children: 0.6 mg per kg of body weight one hour before surgery.
As advised by the doctor, Atarax should be taken with or without food. It should be measured using a special equipment or spoon rather than an ordinary spoon. It should not be used more frequently or for a longer period of time than prescribed.
Adverse Effects
Atarax may produce the following adverse effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- The mouth is parched.
- Headache
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Vision distortion
- Urination difficulties
The following are some extreme side effects that necessitate emergency medical attention:
- Tremors Confusion
- Seizures
- Muscle contractions are erratic.
- A quick or erratic heartbeat
- Having trouble breathing
- Allergic responses (rashes, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing)
- Precautions and Cautions
Pregnant women and those who are allergic to hydroxyzine should not take Atarax. People who have:
- Disorders of seizure
- Asthma or other breathing difficulties
- Glaucoma
- High blood pressure or heart disease
- Intestinal obstruction or stomach ulcer
- Thyroid disease
- Prostate enlargement or urinary issues
- Kidney or liver disease
Atarax may impair the user's thinking or responses. As a result, it should not be used with alcohol or other drowsy medicines. It should also be avoided when driving or doing anything else that demands concentration.
Other drugs that may interact with atarax include:
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
- Opioids Sedatives
- Relaxants for the muscles
- Anticholinergics
Before using Atarax, the user should inform the doctor of all drugs, vitamins, and herbal items that they are currently utilising.
