Hydroxyzine hydrochloride 25 mg is an oral medication prescribed for the symptomatic relief of anxiety and for the treatment of pruritus (itching) [1].
What is hydroxyzine hydrochloride used for?
Hydroxyzine hydrochloride is used to manage anxiety symptoms and to alleviate itching associated with various skin conditions [1].
How does hydroxyzine hydrochloride work?
As an antihistamine, hydroxyzine hydrochloride works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms, including itching [1]. It also has central nervous system depressant effects, which contribute to its anti-anxiety properties [1].
What are the common side effects of hydroxyzine hydrochloride?
Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision [1]. Patients are advised to avoid activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving, until they know how the medication affects them [1].
How long does it take for hydroxyzine hydrochloride to work?
The onset of action for hydroxyzine hydrochloride can vary. For anxiety, it typically begins to work within a few hours. For itching, relief may also be experienced within a similar timeframe [1].
When does the patent expire for hydroxyzine hydrochloride?
Hydroxyzine hydrochloride is an older medication, and its original patents have long expired. This means that generic versions of the drug are widely available [2]. Information on specific patent expirations for older drugs can often be found on resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [2].
Are there alternatives to hydroxyzine hydrochloride for anxiety or itching?
For anxiety, other medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines. For itching, topical corticosteroids, oral antihistamines, and other antipruritic agents may be used, depending on the cause [3, 4].
Who manufactures hydroxyzine hydrochloride?
Numerous pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic hydroxyzine hydrochloride. The specific manufacturer can vary by pharmacy and region [5].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugs.com/xyz.html
[2] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/anxiety-disorders/treatment/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3815517/
[5] https://www.goodrx.com/atarax