Hydroxyzine (Vistaril)
Antihistamine (histamine H1 antagonist; anticholinergic)
- Generalized Anxiety2
- Non-specific anxiety
- Hypnotic2
- SE-itch1
Features
Dosing
GAD 50mg bid – tid, takes up to 6 weeks to work. Insomnia 50mg hs prn.
Management
FDA approved for anxiety and pruritus. Similar to OTC Benadryl but may actually have less side effects. Often started routinely in hospitals to calm patients without using benzos, but is usually useless and can be stopped after discharge.
Side effects fatigue, weight gain. Anticholinergic so avoid in elderly (dementia and other risks).
EMR Text
Anxiety
Hydroxyzine use based on FDA approval in anxiety.
Hydroxyzine side effects reviewed with patient.
Insomnia
Hydroxyzine use based on FDA approval for insomnia.
Hydroxyzine side effects reviewed with patient.