Atarax 10mg Tablet
Prescription Required
Marketer
Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd
SALT COMPOSITION
Hydroxyzine (10mg)
Storage
Store below 30°C
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Product Introduction:
Atarax 10mg Tablet contains Hydroxyzine (10mg), a first-generation antihistamine used primarily for the treatment of anxiety, nausea, vomiting, allergies, and skin conditions such as urticaria (hives). It belongs to the piperazine class of antihistamines and acts by blocking histamine H1 receptors in the body, thereby reducing allergy symptoms. Atarax also exhibits anticholinergic and sedative properties, which make it highly effective for anxiety and insomnia. The medication works quickly and is well-absorbed when taken orally. Atarax 10mg is often prescribed in psychiatric care to manage short-term anxiety and can also be used as a premedication before anesthesia due to its sedative effects. It has a dual action—both as an anxiolytic and an antihistamine—which gives it broad therapeutic utility. In dermatological practice, Atarax is used to relieve itching associated with eczema, contact dermatitis, and other allergic skin conditions. Because of its sedative properties, it’s important for patients to avoid activities requiring mental alertness until they understand how the medication affects them. While the drug is effective, it should only be used under medical supervision, particularly in individuals with kidney or liver impairment.
Key Composition & Ingredients:
- Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride (10mg) – Antihistamine with sedative and anxiolytic properties.
- Excipients – Including lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose.
Uses of Atarax 10mg Tablet:
- Relief from allergic skin conditions such as eczema, hives, and dermatitis.
- Management of generalized anxiety disorders.
- Used as a pre-anesthetic sedative in surgical procedures.
- Treatment for nausea and vomiting associated with various causes.
- Adjunct therapy in insomnia due to its sedative properties.
- Supportive care in alcohol withdrawal to reduce agitation.
Benefits of Atarax 10mg Tablet:
- Provides rapid relief from itching and allergic symptoms.
- Reduces anxiety without the risk of dependence.
- Non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic, making it less habit-forming.
- Can be used in children and elderly under guidance.
- Enhances quality of sleep and reduces nighttime awakenings.
- Helpful as a preoperative sedative, reducing patient anxiety.
How Atarax 10mg Tablet Works:
Atarax blocks the activity of histamine H1 receptors, which are involved in allergic responses. It also suppresses activity in certain subcortical areas of the brain, giving it a sedative and anxiolytic effect. The result is a calming effect on the brain and reduced symptoms of itching, anxiety, and nausea.
How the Drug Works (Mechanism of Action):
Hydroxyzine competes with histamine for binding to H1 receptors, inhibiting histaminic effects in the skin and mucous membranes. It also affects serotonin and acetylcholine receptors, which contributes to its anti-anxiety and antiemetic effects. It doesn't affect the central dopaminergic system, reducing the risk of dependency.
Dosage of Atarax 10mg Tablet:
- Adults: 10–25mg 2–3 times daily depending on the condition.
- Children (above 6 years): 5–15mg twice daily.
- Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it’s close to the next dose.
- Overdose: May cause drowsiness, tremors, or seizures—seek immediate help.
Mode of Action of Atarax 10mg Tablet:
- Inhibits H1 histamine receptors in peripheral tissues.
- Reduces central nervous system activity, promoting calmness.
- Has anticholinergic and antiemetic effects.
- Mild muscle-relaxant properties.
How to Use Atarax 10mg Tablet:
- Swallow with water, with or without food.
- Do not crush or chew.
- Follow your doctor’s prescribed schedule.
Directions for Use:
- Take exactly as prescribed, usually 2-3 times daily.
- Do not self-adjust the dosage.
- Avoid operating machinery or driving.
Side Effects of Atarax 10mg Tablet:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Constipation or upset stomach
- Rare: Confusion (especially in elderly), tremors
Side Effects & How to Manage Them:
- Drowsiness: Avoid alcohol, drive cautiously.
- Dry Mouth: Drink plenty of fluids, chew sugarless gum.
- GI upset: Take with food.
- Dizziness: Rise slowly from sitting or lying down.
- Report any serious effects like chest pain or confusion to your doctor.
Safety Advice:
- Alcohol: Should be strictly avoided due to enhanced sedative effects.
- Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed.
- Breastfeeding: May pass into breast milk; consult a doctor.
- Driving: Avoid until you know how it affects you.
- Kidney/Liver Impairment: Dose adjustment may be needed.
Special Populations:
- Children: Use under pediatric guidance.
- Elderly: Monitor for excessive sedation and confusion.
- Liver/Kidney Disease: May require dose adjustment.
Warnings & Precautions:
- Avoid in patients with prolonged QT interval.
- Do not consume alcohol.
- Use cautiously in elderly and debilitated patients.
Interactions with Atarax 10mg Tablet:
- Increased sedation with CNS depressants.
- May enhance effects of opioids or muscle relaxants.
- Avoid with MAO inhibitors.
Drug-Drug & Drug-Food Interactions:
- CNS depressants like benzodiazepines and alcohol enhance drowsiness.
- Avoid grapefruit juice.
- May interact with antidepressants and antihypertensives.
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to Hydroxyzine or cetirizine.
- QT prolongation or heart rhythm disorders.
- Porphyria.
- Severe liver dysfunction.
Safety Measures & FDA Pregnancy Category:
- Category C: Use if benefits outweigh risks.
- Avoid during early pregnancy unless advised by a doctor.
Diet & Lifestyle Advice:
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol.
- Maintain good hydration and a balanced diet.
- Sleep in a cool, dark room to manage insomnia.
- Practice relaxation techniques to complement anxiety relief.
- Use sunscreen as hydroxyzine may increase sensitivity to sunlight.
- Stay active and follow a stress-reducing routine.
Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine?
- Dual benefits of allergy relief and anxiety reduction.
- Safer alternative to benzodiazepines.
- Fast-acting and effective in multiple conditions.
Substitutes & Alternative Medicines:
- Hydroxy 10mg Tablet
- Hytrinax Tablet
- Vistaryl Tablet
Storage Guidelines:
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
User Feedback & Patient Concerns:
- Most users report relief from itching and anxiety.
- Common concern is drowsiness.
- Rare reports of mild confusion or dry mouth.
Quick Tips:
- Take at bedtime to avoid daytime drowsiness.
- Avoid alcohol and driving.
- Don’t stop suddenly; consult your doctor first.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications.
Fact Box:
- Chemical Class: Piperazine derivatives.
- Habit Forming: No.
- Therapeutic Class: Antihistamines/Anxiolytics.
- Action Class: H1 receptor blocker with sedative effect.
Useful Diagnostic Tests:
- ECG (to monitor heart rhythm)
- Liver Function Test
- Kidney Function Test
- Allergy panel (if needed)
More Information & References:
- Drugs.com
- MedlinePlus
- WebMD
- U.S. FDA Database
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- WHO Essential Medicines List
- Indian Pharmacopoeia
- Clinical Pharmacology Texts
- Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
- Allergy and Immunology Guidelines
Disclaimer
THE CONTENTS OF THIS WEBSITE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, OR PREVENTION OF A DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION. PLEASE CONSULT A PHYSICIAN FOR THE TREATMENT AND/OR MANAGEMENT OF ANY DISEASE OR MEDICAL CONDITION WITHOUT DELAY.