atarax 10mg tablet - Hydroxyzine (10mg) medicine

Atarax 10mg Tablet (Hydroxyzine): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for allergic pruritus and anxiety; limited for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or limbs
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Dark urine or severe abdominal pain
  • Seizures or convulsions

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is atarax 10mg tablet used for?

This medicine contains hydroxyzine, an antihistamine used to treat itching from allergies and to manage anxiety. It works by blocking histamine receptors and calming the central nervous system. Common side effects include drowsiness and dry mouth. It is taken orally, usually 25-100 mg three to four times daily for itching, but the dose must be individualized by a doctor.

  • Generic Name: Hydroxyzine
  • Manufacturer: Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 atarax 10mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा हाइड्रोक्सीज़िन नामक एंटीहिस्टामिन है, जिसका उपयोग एलर्जी के कारण होने वाली खुजली, पित्ती और एक्जिमा के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह चिंता और तनाव को कम करने में भी मदद करती है और सर्जरी से पहले शांत करने के लिए भी दी जाती है। यह दवा मुँह से ली जाती है और आमतौर पर 10 मिलीग्राम की गोली के रूप में उपलब्ध है। इसके सेवन से नींद आना, मुँह सूखना और सिरदर्द जैसे दुष्प्रभाव हो सकते हैं। इसलिए इस दवा को लेते समय वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे नींद और बढ़ सकती है। गर्भवती और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाओं को इस दवा का सेवन डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना नहीं करना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुँह सूखना, सिरदर्द और थकान शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को चक्कर आना, धुंधली दृष्टि या पेट खराब हो सकता है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, दिल की धड़कन अनियमित होना, या चेहरे, होंठ या जीभ में सूजन हो सकती है। ऐसे लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा नींद और सुस्ती पैदा कर सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। शराब और अन्य नींद लाने वाली दवाओं के साथ इसका सेवन न करें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। अपने डॉक्टर को सभी दवाओं के बारे में जानकारी दें जो आप ले रहे हैं। इस दवा को बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के अचानक बंद न करें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 atarax 10mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Allergic pruritus (itching)","description":"Relieves itching associated with allergic conditions such as urticaria and eczema.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Anxiety","description":"Used for the short-term management of anxiety and tension.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Preoperative sedation","description":"Used to produce sedation and reduce anxiety before surgical procedures.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Nausea and vomiting","description":"Sometimes used to help control nausea and vomiting, though not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Occasionally prescribed off-label for short-term management of insomnia due to its sedative effects.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Pruritus in chronic kidney disease","description":"May be used off-label to relieve itching in patients with kidney disease.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic pruritus

Also treats: Anxiety, Preoperative sedation, Nausea and vomiting

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Hydroxyzine
Brand NameAtarax
ManufacturerDr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassH1 Antihistaminics (First Generation)
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food if it upsets your stomach.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
3
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness.
4
Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, urinary retention, or heart problems before taking this medicine.
5
Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been on it for a long time.
6
Keep all your follow-up appointments so your doctor can monitor your response and adjust the dose if needed.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Itching due to allergies
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
Anxiety
This medicine is used for short-term management of anxiety.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
Pain
This medicine is not a pain reliever.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionHydroxyzine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The exact bioavailability is not well established but is considered adequate for therapeutic effect.
DistributionHydroxyzine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the placenta. It is also distributed into breast milk.
Protein BindingApproximately 93% of hydroxyzine is bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismHydroxyzine is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily through oxidation and conjugation. The main metabolite is cetirizine, which is a active antihistamine.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of hydroxyzine in adults is approximately 20 hours. In elderly patients, it may be prolonged.
ExcretionHydroxyzine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine and feces. About 70% of a dose is excreted in urine, mainly as metabolites.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionThe sedative and antihistaminic effects usually begin within 15 to 60 minutes after oral administration.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe effects of hydroxyzine typically last for 4 to 6 hours, but sedation may persist longer in some individuals.

How It Works

Hydroxyzine is a first-generation antihistamine that works by competitively blocking histamine H1 receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels, and respiratory tract. By blocking these receptors, it prevents histamine from causing symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and vasodilation. Additionally, hydroxyzine crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts on the central nervous system, where it suppresses activity in certain brain regions, leading to sedation and anxiolytic effects. It also has anticholinergic properties, which contribute to dry mouth and other side effects.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Hydroxyzine binds to histamine H1 receptors, preventing histamine from attaching and triggering allergic responses.
2
Central nervous system depression: The drug crosses the blood-brain barrier and reduces activity in the central nervous system, leading to sedation and reduced anxiety.
3
Anticholinergic action: Hydroxyzine also blocks acetylcholine receptors, which contributes to side effects like dry mouth and blurred vision.
4
Antiemetic effect: The drug acts on the vomiting center in the brain to suppress nausea and vomiting.

💡 How to Take atarax 10mg tablet

Strength: 10 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine by mouth with or without food.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3If it upsets your stomach, take it with a meal or snack.
4Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless instructed by your doctor.
5Follow the dosing schedule prescribed by your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine for itching is 25 mg to 100 mg taken three to four times daily. For anxiety, the typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg four times daily. For preoperative sedation, 50 mg to 100 mg is given the night before and one hour before surgery. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of this medicine. Start with a lower dose and titrate slowly. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be necessary in patients with renal impairment. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on creatinine clearance.
Hepatic ImpairmentDose adjustment may be necessary in patients with hepatic impairment. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on liver function tests.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 600 mg per day in divided doses, but this should not be exceeded without medical supervision.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals if stomach upset occurs
Reduces gastrointestinal discomfort.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases sedation and impairs psychomotor performance.
Grapefruit juice
Avoid
May increase drug levels by affecting liver enzymes.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of atarax 10mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If drowsiness persists or interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water frequently, chew sugar-free gum, or use a saliva substitute. Consult your doctor if it becomes bothersome.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If persistent or severe, consult your doctor.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Get adequate rest. If fatigue is excessive, talk to your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, difficulty breathing, or dizziness.
Irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.
Tardive dyskinesia (Rare (<0.1%))
Report any involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or limbs to your doctor immediately.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience convulsions or loss of consciousness.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor.
Liver dysfunction
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Alcohol Major
Opioids Major
Benzodiazepines Major
MAO inhibitors Major
Amiodarone Major
Anticholinergics Moderate
Beta-blockers Moderate
Corticosteroids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol)
  • MAO inhibitors
  • QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., benztropine, oxybutynin)
  • Beta-blockers

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impairment of judgment and coordination. Combining alcohol with hydroxyzine can also increase the risk of respiratory depression and other serious side effects.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to hydroxyzine or any component of the formulation","Porphyria","Prolonged QT interval or history of QT prolongation","Severe liver disease","Use with MAO inhibitors"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May impair mental and physical abilities required for driving or operating machinery.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of sedation and anticholinergic effects.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, or prostatic hypertrophy.","May cause QT prolongation; use with caution in patients with cardiac disease.","Do not use during pregnancy unless clearly needed.","Not recommended during breastfeeding."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Hydroxyzine passes into breast milk and may cause drowsiness in a nursing infant. It is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for alternative options.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of hydroxyzine may cause severe drowsiness, confusion, seizures, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrhythmias. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, including monitoring of vital signs and cardiac rhythm. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine can cause significant drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other sedative medications while on this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and impair your ability to think clearly. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. This medicine may interact with other drugs, so always tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements. Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been using it for a long time. Keep this medicine out of reach of children and store it at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of this medicine. They may experience increased drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, and urinary retention. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely. Falls and fractures are a risk due to drowsiness.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, unless clearly needed. Discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used before surgery for sedation. After surgery, it may cause drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding when to resume normal activities.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it can cause dry mouth and may interact with other medications used during dental procedures. It may also increase the risk of drowsiness if sedatives are used.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a regular sleep schedule to help manage anxiety and improve overall well-being.
🥗
Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to reduce anxiety.
😴
Avoid caffeine and other stimulants that may worsen anxiety or interfere with sleep.
💧
Stay physically active with low-impact exercises like walking or swimming.
🧘
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
🌞
Keep a symptom diary to track your response to treatment and share with your doctor.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your ability to exercise safely. Avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how the medicine affects you. If you exercise, do so with caution and stay hydrated.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and flaxseeds, to support overall health.
Reduce intake of processed foods and added sugars.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause significant drowsiness, which may impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving, operating machinery, or working at heights. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your job requires mental alertness.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects or if your symptoms improve, your doctor may gradually reduce the dose. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headache, and restlessness.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to tolerance, dependence, and tardive dyskinesia. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is recommended. It may also cause dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Periodic evaluation of liver and kidney function may be advised.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Can be effective for managing anxiety without medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Relaxation techniques

Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help reduce anxiety and itching.

Evidence: Well-established
Avoiding allergens

Identifying and avoiding triggers can reduce allergic symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while taking this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. If you are crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually to avoid missing doses. Store the medicine in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check the customs regulations of your destination country regarding prescription medications. Always carry enough supply for your entire trip.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with chronic hives
She was prescribed this medicine for severe itching due to hives. She took it as directed and noticed significant relief within an hour. She experienced mild drowsiness initially, so she took it at bedtime. After a week, the hives subsided, and she was able to sleep better.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine at bedtime can help manage drowsiness while providing relief from itching.
👤 A 60-year-old man with anxiety before surgery
He was given this medicine the night before and the morning of his surgery to help him relax. He felt calm and sleepy, which helped reduce his anxiety. He experienced a dry mouth but no other side effects.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is effective for preoperative sedation and anxiety, but it can cause dry mouth; sipping water can help.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 15 to 60 minutes after taking it by mouth.

Q: Can I take this medicine every day?

A: It can be taken daily if prescribed by your doctor, but long-term use should be monitored. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe for children?

A: Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine suddenly?

A: Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been using it for a long time. Your doctor may taper the dose gradually.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe to take during pregnancy?
  • Can I take it for sleep?

🔄 Substitutes for atarax 10mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is a sleeping pill.
    Fact: This medicine is an antihistamine with sedative effects, but it is not approved as a sleeping aid. It is used for allergies and anxiety.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe to take with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the sedative effects of this medicine and can be dangerous. Avoid alcohol while taking it.
  • Myth: This medicine is not habit-forming.
    Fact: This medicine is not considered habit-forming, but it can cause dependence if used for a long time. Always follow your doctor's instructions.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Hydroxyzine hydrochloride

Brand Alternatives

  • Atarax
  • Hydroxyzine hydrochloride tablets

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Hydroxyzine","class":"First-generation antihistamine","sedation":"High","duration":"4-6 hours"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low","duration":"24 hours"},{"medicine":"Diphenhydramine","class":"First-generation antihistamine","sedation":"High","duration":"4-6 hours"}]

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