Hydroxyzine tablets

About hydroxyzine

Hydroxyzine belongs to a group of medicines known as sedating antihistamines. It is used to relieve itching caused by some skin conditions, such as nettle rash (urticaria).

Exposure to substances such as pollen, pet fur, house dust or insect bites can cause some people to produce an excess of a chemical called histamine. This release of histamine can then cause a skin rash and/or itchiness. Because hydroxyzine blocks the effects of histamine, it helps relieve symptoms like these.

Before taking hydroxyzine

To make sure that this is the right treatment for you, before you start taking hydroxyzine it is important that you discuss the treatment with a doctor or pharmacist if:

• You are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding.
• You are over 65 years of age. This is because you could be more susceptible to side-effects.
• You have a problem with the way your liver works, or if you have a problem with your kidneys.
• You have a condition which causes increased pressure in your eyes, such as glaucoma.
• You have prostate problems, or if you have been experiencing any difficulty passing urine.
• You know you have an unusual heart rhythm.
• You know you have a blockage in your small intestines.
• You have epilepsy.
• You have any long-term breathing problems, such as asthma or bronchitis.
• You have a rare inherited blood condition known as porphyria.
• You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.
• You have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take hydroxyzine

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The manufacturer's leaflet will give you more information about hydroxyzine and will provide a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from taking it.
• Take hydroxyzine exactly as your doctor tells you to. Usually, it is sufficient to take one dose at night to control symptoms. Where this is not the case, you may be asked to take 2 or 3 doses during the day in addition to your dose at night.
• You can take hydroxyzine before or after food. Some people find it helps to swallow the tablets with a drink of water.
• If you forget to take a dose, don't worry, just take the next dose when it is due and then continue as before. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.
• Most people only need to take an antihistamine for a short while when they have symptoms. You should stop taking hydroxyzine once your symptoms have eased.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Hydroxyzine can cause drowsiness. If this happens to you, do not drive and do not use tools or machines. Alcohol will make the drowsiness worse, so it is best not to drink alcohol while you are on hydroxyzine.
• If you are having an operation or any treatment or tests (particularly if it is to test for an allergy), tell the person due to carry out the treatment that you are taking an antihistamine. This is because you may be advised to stop taking hydroxyzine for a short while before some allergy tests.
• Hydroxyzine may cause some people's skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than normal. Use a sunscreen that protects against UVA light and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, especially in strong sunlight or until you know how your skin reacts. Do not use sunbeds.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with an antihistamine. This is because a number of other medicines can interfere with the way hydroxyzine works and can increase the risk of side-effects.

Can hydroxyzine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains the most common ones associated with hydroxyzine. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

How to store hydroxyzine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines