Vistaril
® (
hydroxyzine) is a prescription drug licensed for a variety of different uses. It is probably used most commonly as an antihistamine (for allergic reactions or itching reactions to opioids), as a nausea medication, and as a medicine to improve the effectiveness of opioid pain relievers.
(Click Vistaril Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Brand-name Vistaril is made by Pfizer, Inc. Generic versions are made by various manufacturers.
Vistaril belongs to a group of medications known commonly as antihistamines. It works for allergic reactions (or itching reactions to opioids) by blocking histamine receptors. It probably works for
anxiety by affecting certain parts of the brain. Vistaril also can cause relaxation of skeletal muscles.
Vistaril also blocks acetylcholine receptors, which is probably why it helps to alleviate nausea.
Some general considerations include the following:
- Vistaril comes in the form of capsules, suspension (oral liquid), and injections (available only in generic form). It is usually taken two to four times daily.
- It does not matter if you take Vistaril with or without food.
- Make sure to shake Vistaril oral suspension well before each dose.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
The dose your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- Your age and weight (for children)
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Vistaril may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the possible side effects include, but are not limited to:
(Click Vistaril Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Vistaril?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Vistaril if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
People who overdose on this medication may experience effects such as:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Seizures
- Nausea and vomiting.
If you happen to overdose on Vistaril, seek immediate medical attention.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Vistaril?
If you forget to take a dose of this medication, take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
Vistaril products (including the oral suspension) should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
The medication is available in the following strengths and forms:
- Vistaril 25 mg capsules
- Vistaril 50 mg capsules
- Vistaril 100 mg capsules (available only in generic form)
- Vistaril 25 mg per 5 mL oral suspension
- Vistaril 25 mg per mL intramuscular injection solution (only in generic form)
- Vistaril 50 mg per mL intramuscular injection solution (only in generic form).
Vistaril capsules or oral suspension contain
hydroxyzine pamoate, while the injection solution contains hydroxyzine hydrochloride. These are two different forms of the same medication.
Is There a Generic Version of Vistaril?
This medication (except for the oral suspension) is available in generic form.
