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Atarax
(Hydroxyzine) Information |
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 The
following information is a summary about Atarax. It is not
intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Atarax USES
Atarax is an antihistamine used to relieve the symptoms of
common anxiety and tension and, in combination with other
medications, to treat anxiety that results from physical
illness. It also relieves itching from allergic reactions
and can be used as a sedative before and after general anesthesia.
Atarax DIRECTIONS
The usual dose is 25 milligrams 3 or 4 times a day. Take
your Atarax by mouth as prescribed. It is usually taken every
4 to 6 hours as needed. Use Atarax exactly as prescribed.
Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use
it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this
drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended
period of time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without
your doctor's approval. When used for extended periods, Atarax
may not work as well and may require different dosing. Consult
your doctor if Atarax stops working well.
Atarax SIDE EFFECTS
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change
in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only
your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue
taking Atarax. Drowsiness, the most common side effect of
Atarax, is usually temporary and may disappear in a few days
or when dosage is reduced. Other side effects include dry
mouth, twitches, tremors, and convulsions. The last two usually
occur with higher than recommended doses of Atarax.
Atarax PRECAUTIONS
Atarax may increase the effects of alcohol. Avoid alcohol
while taking Atarax. If Atarax is taken with certain other
drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased,
or altered. It is especially important to check with your
doctor before combining Atarax with the following: Barbiturates
such as Seconal and Phenobarbital Narcotics such as Demerol
and Percocet Non-narcotic analgesics such as ibuprofen and
acetaminophen.
Atarax DRUG INTERACTIONS
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to hydroxyzine
or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what
prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking,
especially antihistamines; medications for colds, allergies,
or hay fever; medications for depression or seizures; muscle
relaxants; narcotics (pain medications); sedatives; sleeping
pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins. tell your doctor if you
have or have ever had asthma, glaucoma, ulcers, difficulty
urinating (due to an enlarged prostate gland), heart disease,
liver disease, high blood pressure, seizures, or an overactive
thyroid gland. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan
to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become
pregnant while taking hydroxyzine, call your doctor. if you
are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor
or dentist that you are taking hydroxyzine. you should know
that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or
operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by
this drug.
Atarax OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately.
Atarax NOTES
Do not share Atarax with others. Medical examinations including
the nose are generally performed during prolonged use of
this product to check for side effects. Inform all your doctors
you use (or have used) Atarax.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use Atarax as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose
and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the
dose to catch up.
Atarax STORAGE
Store Atarax at room temperature between 36 and 77 degrees
F (2 -25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. |
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