Precautions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies before taking hydroxyzine, including those to cetirizine, levocetirizine, or other substances. Inactive ingredients in this product have the potential to trigger allergic reactions or other issues. For more information, consult your pharmacist.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history before taking this medication, especially of: breathing issues (such as emphysema, asthma), high eye pressure (glaucoma), high blood pressure, seizures, stomach/intestine issues (such as ulcer, blockage), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), difficulty urinating (for example, due to enlarged prostate), and kidney, liver, or kidney problems.
Hydroxyzine has been linked to a heart rhythm disorder (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness and fainting) that require immediate medical attention.
If you take other medications or have certain medical conditions that could increase your risk of QT prolongation, you should consult your doctor. If you have any of the following conditions before taking hydroxyzine: certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death), please inform your doctor or pharmacist.
Your risk of QT prolongation may also increase if your blood contains too little potassium or magnesium. This risk could rise if you take specific medications (like diuretics or "water pills") or experience symptoms like excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Consult your doctor about the safest way to take hydroxyzine.
This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. You may become dizzy or drowsy if you consume alcohol or marijuana (cannabis). Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can do it safely. Consume no alcoholic beverages. If you use marijuana (cannabis), talk to your doctor.
Inform your doctor or dentist about all of the products you use before having surgery (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Children may be more sensitive to the drug's side effects. In young children, this drug can often cause excitement rather than drowsiness. Drowsiness and confusion can both increase the likelihood of falling.
This medication should be used only when clearly necessary during pregnancy. Consult your doctor about the risks and benefits.
It is unknown whether this medication passes into breast milk. Before you start breast-feeding, talk to your doctor.
