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.
The
following information is a summary about Atarax. It
is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
