Antihistamine are well-known medication used to treat allergy symptoms, insomnia as well as colds. A doctor may occasionally administer them before and after surgery as an anesthetic. Beyond that, in modern medicine, certain antihistamines are prescribed to treat anxiety when no other medication was effective.
Hydroxyzine for Anxiety Treatment
Hydroxyzine is the most commonly prescribed antihistamine for anxiety treatment. Its first-line application is related to treating skin allergic reactions such as hives or itching in both adults and children, however, a doctor may use it for anxiety resulting from psychoneurosis or conditions where anxiety comes as an accompanying symptom. It fits only short-term treatment.
Some studies reported its efficacy in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), however, a doctor should always assess the applicability of this medication. Other modalities are available to treat anxiety.
Precautions of Antihistamine Used for Anxiety
Anxiety medication antihistamine is believed to work similarly to antidepressants. It produces a calming effect on the chemicals in the brain which develops relief for imbalanced mood, low energy, weakness, and anxious feeling.
Similar to Benzo medications, an antihistamine for anxiety is effective only during short-term use, as a long-term application may alter the functioning of the brain. Furthermore, this type of medication may be abused by some, so prescription and caution are required. Some patients reported experiencing seizures and hallucinogenic effects.
Antihistamine for anxiety Hydroxyzine is most likely to cause drowsiness, so it is not recommended to take while driving or operating heavy machinery.
Other common side effects during antihistamine and anxiety treatment include:
- dizziness;
- nausea;
- low appetite;
- confusion;
- nervousness;
- blurred vision.
Antihistamine for anxiety may be contraindicated for use in patients with certain medical conditions including glaucoma, liver/kidney failure, high blood pressure.
Cetirizine is a representative of the antihistamine class of medications that is typically well-tolerated in pregnant and nursing women, however, a doctor should assess its applicability. Other modalities are available for these medical conditions.
Antihistamine for anxiety Hydroxyzine is unlikely to be prescribed to nursing and pregnant women, as it has the potential to cause malformations and abnormalities in the fetus, and is not known to be excreted into human milk.
Antihistamines are the most commonly prescribed medications in children but when it comes to allergy, colds, or difficulty sleeping. If you decide that treatment of anxiety with these medications may be good for your kid, you must speak to the doctor.
How to Take Antihistamine for Anxiety?
Antihistamine dosage is tailored individually depending on the patient’s severity of symptoms, age, and individual response.
Hydroxyzine is typically taken up to 4 times per day with or without food if using a tablet form. While Hydroxyzine solution or syrup should be measured using the spoon and taken in doses of 25mg-100mg depending on the patient’s response.
Do not change the dosage without speaking to the doctor. If you believe you overdosed, seek emergency help immediately (call 911).
Your medical history should be closely studied prior to assigning a treatment plan and administering this medication.
