Hydroxyzine is a medication that is used for several purposes, including:

• Relieving itching caused by allergic skin reactions: Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

• Relieving anxiety and tension: Hydroxyzine can be used alone or with other medications to relieve anxiety and tension in adults and children).

• Sedation before and after general anesthesia for surgery: Hydroxyzine is used along with other medications in adults and children as a sedative before and after general anesthesia for surgery.

• Relieving symptoms of allergic conditions: Hydroxyzine can be used to relieve symptoms of chronic urticaria and atopic and contact dermatoses.

Hydroxyzine comes in several forms, including capsules, tablets, syrup, and suspension, and is usually taken three or four times a day. It is important to follow the directions on the prescription label carefully and not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by a doctor. Hydroxyzine may cause drowsiness and sedation, and it can affect thinking or reaction time, so it may be dangerous to drive or operate machinery while taking it.