atarax 25mg tablet - Hydroxyzine (25mg) medicine

Atarax 25mg Tablet (Hydroxyzine): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 24, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for allergic pruritus and urticaria; moderate for anxiety and nausea.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 24, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Palpitations, fainting, or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Confusion, hallucinations, or severe drowsiness
  • Inability to urinate or severe abdominal pain
  • Seizures
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is atarax 25mg tablet used for?

This medicine is an antihistamine used to treat itching, allergic skin reactions, anxiety, and nausea. It works by blocking histamine and acetylcholine receptors, causing sedation and reducing allergic symptoms. It is taken orally, usually 25 mg three to four times daily, 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 25mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा हाइड्रोक्सीज़िन 25 मिलीग्राम की एक टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से एलर्जी के कारण होने वाली खुजली, चकत्ते, और सूजन को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह चिंता और तनाव को कम करने में भी मदद करती है और मतली व उल्टी को रोकने के लिए भी इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह दवा दिमाग में हिस्टामिन नामक पदार्थ को ब्लॉक करके काम करती है, जिससे एलर्जी के लक्षण कम होते हैं और नींद आती है। इस दवा को डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लें। इसे शराब के साथ न लें क्योंकि इससे नींद और बढ़ सकती है। गर्भवती महिलाओं और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाओं को इसका उपयोग करने से पहले डॉक्टर से परामर्श करना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुँह सूखना, सिरदर्द और थकान शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को चक्कर आना, धुंधली दृष्टि या कब्ज भी हो सकती है। ये प्रभाव आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और शरीर के अभ्यस्त होने पर कम हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में अनियमित दिल की धड़कन, गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, भ्रम और पेशाब करने में कठिनाई शामिल हैं। यदि आपको कोई गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। खुराक को बढ़ाएँ नहीं और न ही इसे निर्देश से अधिक बार लें। जब तक आपको पता न चल जाए कि यह दवा आप पर कैसे असर करती है, तब तक वाहन चलाने या भारी मशीनरी चलाने से बचें, क्योंकि इससे बहुत नींद आ सकती है। इस दवा के साथ शराब न पिएँ, क्योंकि इससे नींद और बढ़ सकती है और आपकी सोचने-समझने की क्षमता प्रभावित हो सकती है। अपने डॉक्टर को उन सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएं जो आप ले रहे हैं, खासकर जो दिल की धड़कन को प्रभावित करती हैं या नींद लाती हैं। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं, या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो इस दवा का उपयोग करने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें। इस दवा को बच्चों की पहुँच से दूर रखें। इसे कमरे के तापमान पर, नमी और सीधी धूप से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 atarax 25mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Allergic pruritus and urticaria","description":"Relieves itching and skin reactions associated with allergies by blocking histamine H1 receptors.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Anxiety and tension","description":"Short-term management of anxiety and tension, often used as a premedication before surgery.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Nausea and vomiting","description":"Used as an antiemetic, particularly for motion sickness and postoperative nausea.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Preoperative sedation","description":"Provides sedation and reduces anxiety before surgical procedures.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Sometimes used off-label for short-term management of insomnia due to its sedative effects.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chronic pruritus in liver disease","description":"May be used off-label to relieve itching in cholestatic liver disease.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic pruritus and urticaria

Also treats: Anxiety, Nausea and vomiting, Preoperative sedation

📋 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 causes stomach upset.
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 sedation.
4
Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible, especially for anxiety.
5
If you are taking this medicine for nausea, take it 30 to 60 minutes before travel or as directed.
6
Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart rhythm problems, liver disease, or glaucoma.
7
Do not stop this medicine abruptly if you have been taking it for a long time; consult your doctor for a tapering schedule.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Itching and skin rash
This medicine is commonly prescribed for allergic pruritus and urticaria.
Likely Use
Anxiety
This medicine is used for short-term management of anxiety.
Likely Use
Nausea and vomiting
This medicine has antiemetic properties.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
Cough
This medicine is not indicated for cough.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The exact bioavailability is not well established from the available information.
DistributionThis medicine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the placenta. The volume of distribution is not well established from the available information.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismThis medicine is metabolized in the liver, primarily through oxidation and conjugation. One of its metabolites, cetirizine, is an active antihistamine.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 20 hours in adults. In elderly patients, it may be prolonged.
ExcretionThis medicine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine and feces. The exact proportions are not well established from the available information.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for sedation and anxiolysis is typically within 15 to 30 minutes after oral administration. The antiemetic effect may take longer.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are generally reached within 2 to 4 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is typically 6 to 8 hours for sedation and antiemetic effects, but may vary depending on the individual.

How It Works

This medicine works primarily by competitively blocking histamine H1 receptors in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. This blockade prevents histamine from binding to its receptors, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Additionally, it has anticholinergic effects by blocking muscarinic receptors, which contributes to its antiemetic and drying effects. It also has some central nervous system depressant activity, which explains its sedative and anxiolytic properties.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: This medicine binds to histamine H1 receptors in the brain and peripheral tissues, preventing histamine from activating them.
2
Reduction of allergic symptoms: By blocking H1 receptors, it reduces itching, sneezing, and other allergic responses.
3
Central nervous system depression: The blockade of H1 receptors in the brain leads to sedation and reduced anxiety.
4
Anticholinergic effects: It also blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, which contributes to antiemetic effects and side effects like dry mouth and constipation.

💡 How to Take atarax 25mg tablet

Strength: 25 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine by mouth with or without food, but with food if it upsets your stomach.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises you to.
4Take it at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level in your body.
5If you are taking it for nausea, take it 30 to 60 minutes before travel or as directed by your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine for anxiety is 25 mg to 100 mg taken three to four times daily. For itching, the usual dose is 25 mg taken three to four times daily. For nausea and vomiting, the dose is 25 mg to 100 mg taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. The maximum recommended dose is 100 mg per day for anxiety and 600 mg per day for other indications, but these limits may vary. 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. The starting dose should be lower, and the dose should be titrated slowly. Use with caution due to increased risk of confusion, falls, and urinary retention.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be necessary in patients with renal impairment. Consult your doctor for specific dosing recommendations.
Hepatic ImpairmentDose adjustment may be necessary in patients with hepatic impairment. This medicine is contraindicated in severe liver disease. Consult your doctor for specific dosing recommendations.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose for adults is generally 100 mg for anxiety and up to 600 mg for other indications, but this must be individualized by a clinician.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals if it causes stomach upset
Reduces gastrointestinal discomfort.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases sedation and impairs psychomotor performance.
Grapefruit juice
Use with caution
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 25mg 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 saliva substitutes. 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 severe or persistent, consult your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

QT interval prolongation and arrhythmias (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath.
Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help if you experience rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Confusion or delirium (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you or a caregiver notices confusion, disorientation, or hallucinations.
Urinary retention (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you are unable to urinate or have difficulty passing urine.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures
Seek emergency medical help if seizures occur.
Blood dyscrasias
Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection to your doctor.
Liver enzyme elevation
Your doctor may monitor liver function. Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
CNS depressants Major
QT-prolonging drugs Major
MAOIs Major
Anticholinergic drugs Moderate
Opioid analgesics Moderate
Beta-blockers Moderate
Corticosteroids Minor
Sympathomimetics Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol)
  • QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol, certain antipsychotics)
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

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

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can significantly increase sedation, drowsiness, and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It can also increase the risk of respiratory depression.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to hydroxyzine or any component of the formulation","Prolonged QT interval or history of torsades de pointes","Severe liver disease","Use with MAOIs","Pregnancy (especially third trimester)","Breastfeeding"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause significant drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of confusion, falls, and urinary retention.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, or prostatic hyperplasia.","May prolong QT interval; use with caution in patients with cardiac disease or electrolyte abnormalities.","Do not stop abruptly if taken for long periods; consult your doctor for tapering.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine passes into breast milk and may cause drowsiness in a nursing infant. It is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. If you must take this medicine, consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits, and monitor your baby for excessive sleepiness.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe drowsiness, confusion, seizures, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrhythmias. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, including monitoring of vital signs, ECG, and management of seizures or arrhythmias. 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 double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dose or take it more often than directed. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, because it can cause significant drowsiness. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase sedation and impair your ability to think clearly. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially those that affect heart rhythm or cause drowsiness. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of this medicine. They are at higher risk of confusion, falls, urinary retention, and constipation. The starting dose should be lower, and the dose should be titrated slowly. Regular monitoring for these side effects is recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Discuss alternative treatments that may be safer for you and your baby.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used as a premedication before surgery to reduce anxiety and provide sedation. After surgery, it may be used for nausea and vomiting. However, it can increase the sedative effects of anesthesia and other postoperative medications. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it can cause dry mouth and increase the risk of dental problems. It may also interact with sedatives used during dental procedures. Your dentist may recommend adjusting your dose or taking precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of sleep apnea and other health issues.
🥗
Practice good sleep hygiene to improve sleep quality if you are taking this medicine for insomnia.
😴
Avoid caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening, as they can interfere with sleep and increase anxiety.
💧
Engage in regular physical activity, but avoid strenuous exercise close to bedtime.
🧘
Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
🌞
Stay hydrated to help reduce dry mouth and constipation.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your ability to exercise safely. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as weightlifting or high-intensity interval training, until you know how the medicine affects you. If you experience dizziness or lightheadedness during exercise, stop and rest.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation.
Stay well hydrated to combat dry mouth.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen anxiety and interfere with sleep.
Eat a balanced diet to support overall health.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause significant drowsiness, which may affect your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving, operating machinery, or working at heights. It is advisable to avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. If your work requires mental alertness, discuss with your doctor about timing the dose to minimize impact.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been taking it for a long time. Your doctor may recommend a gradual tapering schedule to avoid withdrawal symptoms. If you experience any serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to tolerance to its sedative effects, and there is a risk of dependence. It may also cause anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Regular monitoring of heart rhythm, liver, and kidney function may be necessary with prolonged use. It is important to review the need for continued use with your doctor periodically.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Effective for anxiety and insomnia without medication side effects.

Evidence: Well-established
Relaxation techniques

Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep.

Evidence: Well-established
Antihistamine eye drops or nasal sprays

For allergic symptoms, topical treatments may be an alternative.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled to receive a vaccine, inform your healthcare provider that you are 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 with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. This is important for customs and security checks. If you are crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually to avoid missing doses. Store the medicine in a cool, dry place, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. If you are traveling by air, keep it in your carry-on luggage to prevent loss. Consult your doctor before traveling if you have any concerns about taking this medicine while away from home.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with chronic urticaria
She was prescribed this medicine for severe itching and hives. After taking it as directed, her itching reduced significantly within a few hours, but she felt drowsy. She was advised to take it at bedtime to manage the sedation. She also used cool compresses and avoided triggers. Over two weeks, her hives improved, and she was able to taper off the medicine under her doctor's supervision.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine at bedtime can help manage daytime drowsiness while still providing relief from allergic symptoms.
👤 A 60-year-old man with anxiety before surgery
He was given this medicine as a premedication before a minor surgical procedure. It helped him relax and reduced his anxiety. He experienced dry mouth and mild drowsiness, which resolved after the surgery. He was advised not to drive for 24 hours after the procedure.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is effective for short-term anxiety and preoperative sedation, but its sedative effects require caution with driving and operating machinery.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 15 to 30 minutes after oral administration, with peak effects in 2 to 4 hours.

Q: Can I take this medicine every day?

A: This medicine can be taken daily for short periods as prescribed by your doctor. Long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare professional.

Q: What should I avoid while taking this medicine?

A: Avoid alcohol, driving, and operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Also avoid other CNS depressants unless approved by your doctor.

Q: Is this medicine habit-forming?

A: This medicine is not considered habit-forming in the traditional sense, but it can cause dependence if used for long periods. It should be used only as prescribed.

🤔 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?
  • Does it cause weight gain?

🔄 Substitutes for atarax 25mg 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 properties, but it is not approved as a primary treatment for insomnia. It is used for allergies, anxiety, and nausea.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe to take with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol should be avoided because it can increase sedation and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
  • Myth: This medicine can be taken indefinitely without any monitoring.
    Fact: Long-term use should be monitored by a doctor, especially for heart rhythm, liver, and kidney function.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Hydroxyzine hydrochloride

Brand Alternatives

  • Atarax 25mg Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","class":"First-generation antihistamine","sedation":"High","duration":"6-8 hours","indications":"Allergies, anxiety, nausea"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low","duration":"24 hours","indications":"Allergies"},{"medicine":"Diphenhydramine","class":"First-generation antihistamine","sedation":"High","duration":"4-6 hours","indications":"Allergies, insomnia, motion sickness"}]

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