Can hydroxyzine cause weight gain? (2024)

Can hydroxyzine cause weight gain?

Histamines also control the body's appetite aspect. However, Atarax is a type of antihistamine that reduces naturally occurring histamines. This, in turn, causes overeating and thus results in weight gain. So, yes, Atarax does cause weight gain in the body.

What are the major side effects of hydroxyzine?

What happens if you take hydroxyzine every night?

Hydroxyzine is not intended to be a long-term sleep solution. It is sometimes prescribed off-label as a short-term or occasional aid for insomnia or sleep-related problems. Taking hydroxyzine every night for sleep, long-term, may decrease its effectiveness.

Is it bad to take hydroxyzine everyday?

Hydroxyzine may be taken every day at regular times or on an as needed (“PRN”) basis. Typically, your health care provider will limit the number of doses you should take in one day. Your health care provider will determine the dose and method of taking the medication that is right for you based upon your response.

Is hydroxyzine based on weight?

Adults—50 to 100 milligrams (mg) per day. Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The dose is usually 0.6 milligram (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day.

What are the cons of hydroxyzine?

Downsides

May cause a dry mouth, mild skin eruptions or a rash, headache, hallucinations. Side effects are generally mild and transient. When used to manage itching or anxiety, hydroxyzine is usually taken four times a day. Although it is sometimes used to manage itching, hydroxyzine may cause itching in some people.

Why is hydroxyzine a high risk medication?

7 Hydroxyzine may cause confusion and oversedation,9 which increases the patient's fall risk. Increases risk of causing anticholinergic effects, cognitive impairment, delirium and oversedation in the elderly.

Does hydroxyzine increase appetite?

Histamines also control the body's appetite aspect. However, Atarax is a type of antihistamine that reduces naturally occurring histamines. This, in turn, causes overeating and thus results in weight gain. So, yes, Atarax does cause weight gain in the body.

Is hydroxyzine hard to stop?

Withdrawal from hydroxyzine can be especially challenging. Symptoms of hydroxyzine withdrawal can include anxiety, agitation, insomnia, and even seizures. Detoxing from hydroxyzine should always be done under the care of a medical professional, as withdrawal can be dangerous.

How long can you safely take hydroxyzine?

Official answer. Hydroxyzine is intended for short-term use only (less than 4 months) when used to treat anxiety.

Is hydroxyzine habit forming?

Hydroxyzine is not a controlled substance, is non-habit forming and does not cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms. It is a good choice for patients with mild anxiety symptoms and those who do not want to take a daily medication or a federally controlled substance (Source).

Can you take hydroxyzine long term for anxiety?

Hydroxyzine is a sedating antihistamine that can be used short-term to treat anxiety and trouble sleeping, but is not meant for long-term use.

When should I stop taking hydroxyzine?

Is 25mg of hydroxyzine strong for anxiety?

For treating anxiety, you'll likely start with a total daily dosage of 50 mg to 100 mg of hydroxyzine, taken in divided doses. This means you'll take 12.5-mg to 25-mg doses two to four times per day. The maximum recommended dosage for treating anxiety in adults is 100 mg, taken up to four times per day.

Is 25mg hydroxyzine a lot?

Adults: The typical dose is 25 mg by mouth three to four times daily. Children over 6 years old: The typical dose is 50 to 100 mg by mouth daily, given in separate doses throughout the day.

How fast does hydroxyzine work for anxiety?

Hydroxyzine starts working very quickly. Most people will start to feel it kick in within 30 minutes and will feel its maximum effect at around 2 hours.

Is hydroxyzine hard on the liver?

Despite widespread use, hydroxyzine has not been linked to liver test abnormalities or to clinically apparent liver injury.

Is hydroxyzine causing more anxiety?

One study also suggests cetirizine and hydroxyzine have a greater chance of causing anxiety and mood changes than other antihistamines. Hydroxyzine can also be used to treat anxiety conditions. So if you notice your symptoms worsen after starting this medication, contact your provider to discuss it further.

Is hydroxyzine worse than Xanax?

Hydroxyzine (Atarax, Vistaril) and alprazolam (Xanax) are two commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications. Both medications kick in quickly and share some common side effects, such as drowsiness and dry mouth. Alprazolam — especially high doses — can be habit-forming, but hydroxyzine does not have this risk.

Why did my doctor prescribe hydroxyzine for anxiety?

Hydroxyzine is used to help control anxiety and tension caused by nervous and emotional conditions. It can also be used to help control anxiety and produce sleep before surgery. This medicine is also used to relieve symptoms of allergic conditions (eg, chronic urticaria and atopic and contact dermatoses).

What is a good substitute for hydroxyzine?

Does hydroxyzine damage your heart?

Hydroxyzine can cause abnormal heart rhythms and low blood pressure. Your risk for these side effects is higher if you already have heart problems before taking hydroxyzine. Liver or kidney problems. If you have liver or kidney problems, tell your doctor before starting hydroxyzine oral tablets.

Are antihistamines linked to weight gain?

When antihistamines block histamine, our appetite can increase. This, plus side effects like drowsiness, could lead to weight gain. Your risk of gaining weight from antihistamines may depend on many factors. But a healthy diet, physical activity, and other lifestyle factors can help you manage your risk.

Do you still feel tired on hydroxyzine?

Sometimes hydroxyzine makes people feel groggy, and they experience daytime sleepiness from its persistent effects after sleep. Although this sedating effect is usually transient with regular or reduced usage, some people have reported that hydroxyzine leaves them feeling perpetually fatigued.

What are the positive effects of hydroxyzine?

Because it is an antihistamine, hydroxyzine suppresses the effects of histamine. It is prescribed for: Itching from hives or contact dermatitis. Symptoms of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)