Atarax Drops (Hydroxyzine 6mg): Complete Medicine Guide
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or fainting
- Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Severe drowsiness or confusion
- Seizures or convulsions
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Decreased urine output
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is atarax drops used for?
This medicine is an oral antihistamine used to treat itching from allergies and hives. It also helps with anxiety and sleep. It works by blocking histamine and causing drowsiness. It is available as a 6 mg strength oral drops.
- Generic Name: Hydroxyzine
- Manufacturer: Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 atarax drops के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा हाइड्रोक्सीज़िन नामक एंटीहिस्टामिन है, जो मुख्य रूप से एलर्जी के कारण होने वाली खुजली, पित्ती (हाइव्स) और त्वचा पर लाल चकत्ते के इलाज में उपयोग की जाती है। यह चिंता को कम करने और नींद लाने में भी मदद करती है। यह दवा दिमाग में हिस्टामिन नामक पदार्थ को रोककर काम करती है, जिससे खुजली और एलर्जी के लक्षण कम होते हैं। यह 6 मिलीग्राम की ताकत में ओरल ड्रॉप्स के रूप में उपलब्ध है। इस दवा को डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना नहीं लेना 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 पेट खराब हो सकता है। दुर्लभ मामलों में यह दिल की धड़कन अनियमित कर सकती है या गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। अगर आपको कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा लेने के बाद नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या भारी मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे नींद और चक्कर बढ़ सकते हैं। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं, स्तनपान करा रही हैं या गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। इस दवा को डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना लंबे समय तक न लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।
💊 atarax drops Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic pruritus (itching)","description":"Relieves itching associated with allergic skin conditions such as urticaria and eczema.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urticaria (hives)","description":"Reduces the wheals and itching of acute and chronic urticaria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Anxiety","description":"Short-term management of anxiety, often as an adjunct to other treatments.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Preoperative sedation","description":"Used to produce calmness and reduce anxiety before surgical procedures.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"May be used short-term to help with sleep, especially when associated with anxiety or itching.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Nausea and vomiting","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its antiemetic properties, though evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chronic pain with anxiety","description":"May be used off-label to help with anxiety and sleep disturbance in chronic pain patients.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Allergic pruritus
Also treats: Urticaria, Anxiety, Insomnia, Preoperative sedation
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Hydroxyzine |
| Brand Name | Atarax |
| Manufacturer | Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | H1 Antihistaminics (First Generation) |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by selectively blocking histamine H1 receptors in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. By occupying these receptors, it prevents histamine from binding and triggering allergic responses such as itching, sneezing, and vasodilation. Additionally, because it crosses the blood-brain barrier, it suppresses activity in certain brain regions, leading to sedation and anxiolytic effects. It also has mild anticholinergic properties, which contribute to dry mouth and other side effects.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take atarax drops
Strength: Oral drops, 6 mg per mL (as hydroxyzine hydrochloride).
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine for itching and allergic conditions is 25 mg to 100 mg taken three to four times daily. For anxiety, the dose is typically 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. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of this medicine. Start with a lower dose and titrate slowly. The maximum daily dose should be reduced. Regular monitoring for confusion, falls, and urinary retention is advised. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. For moderate renal impairment, consider reducing the dose by 50%. For severe renal impairment, use with caution and monitor closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with hepatic impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. For moderate hepatic impairment, consider reducing the dose by 50%. For severe hepatic impairment, use is contraindicated. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 600 mg per day in divided doses. However, doses above 100 mg per day should be used with caution and only under medical supervision. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of atarax drops
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| Diazepam | Major | |
| Amiodarone | Major | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Atropine | Moderate | |
| Metoprolol | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| MAOIs | Major |
🚨 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., atropine, benztropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
- Beta-blockers
- Cimetidine
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impairment of judgment and motor skills. Combining alcohol with this medicine 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 on ECG or history of torsades de pointes","Severe liver disease","Severe kidney disease","Early pregnancy (unless clearly needed)","Breastfeeding (relative contraindication)"]
⚠️ 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 confusion and falls.","Use with caution in patients with seizures.","May cause anticholinergic effects; use with caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, or constipation.","Do not use for prolonged periods without medical supervision.","May cause photosensitivity; avoid excessive sun exposure."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Hydroxyzine is excreted in breast milk and may cause drowsiness in the nursing infant. It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding, especially in premature infants or those with impaired renal function. Consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine 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. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Monitor vital signs, ECG, and electrolytes. Hemodialysis is not effective in removing hydroxyzine.
⏰ 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
This medicine can make you feel sleepy, so do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not take this medicine for longer than prescribed without consulting your doctor. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If you have a heart condition, liver disease, kidney disease, or a history of seizures, inform your doctor before taking this medicine. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly if you have been using it regularly for a long time; your doctor may need to reduce the dose gradually.
👴 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. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely. Avoid long-term use if possible. Regular review of the need for continued therapy is recommended.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor before taking this medicine. Hydroxyzine is classified as Pregnancy Category C, and its safety during pregnancy is not well established. It should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Consider alternative treatments if appropriate.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine may be used for preoperative sedation. After surgery, it may be continued for anxiety or itching if needed. However, it can increase the effects of anesthesia and other postoperative medications. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist if you are taking this medicine. Monitor for excessive sedation and respiratory depression.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it can cause dry mouth and increase the effects of sedatives used during dental procedures. You may need to take precautions to prevent excessive drowsiness. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent dental problems associated with dry mouth.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your coordination and balance. 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 avoid strenuous activities that could lead to injury if you feel dizzy.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can significantly impact your ability to work, especially if your job requires alertness, driving, or operating heavy machinery. It can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired concentration. Discuss with your doctor about timing the dose to minimize interference with your work schedule. Avoid driving or using machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects such as irregular heartbeat, severe allergic reactions, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor may advise stopping the medicine or adjusting the dose based on your condition and response to treatment.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may lead to tolerance, meaning the effects may diminish over time. It can also cause dependence, although the risk is low. Prolonged use may increase the risk of tardive dyskinesia and other movement disorders. Regular monitoring by a doctor is recommended if used for more than a few weeks. Do not stop suddenly after long-term use; taper gradually under medical supervision.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Can be effective for anxiety and insomnia without medication side effects.
Evidence: Well-establishedDeep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
Evidence: ModerateCalamine lotion or topical corticosteroids can help with localized itching.
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 for allergy testing, inform your doctor, as antihistamines can interfere with skin test results. You may need to stop this medicine a few days before allergy testing.
📦 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
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use after expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid temperature extremes. If you are crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Store the medicine at room temperature and protect it from light and moisture. Check the customs regulations of your destination country regarding prescription medicines.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine usually starts working within 15 to 30 minutes after oral administration. The sedative effect may be felt sooner, while the anti-itching effect may take a bit longer.
A: Yes, you can take this medicine with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
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.
A: Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing and safety.
A: This medicine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for atarax drops
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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oscorex 6mg oral dropsGreen Cross Remedies ₹25.97 70% CHEAPER
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xitimin 6mg oral dropsArchicare Limited ₹29.00 66.5% CHEAPER
-
xycotic 6mg oral dropsHaledew Remedies ₹29.00 66.5% CHEAPER
-
azon 6mg dropDivine Lifecare Pvt Ltd ₹32.81 62.1% CHEAPER
-
a rex dropIntel Pharmaceuticals ₹33.66 61.1% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
Fact: This medicine is not safe for everyone. It should be avoided in people with certain heart conditions, severe liver or kidney disease, and during early pregnancy. - Myth: This medicine is not addictive.
Fact: This medicine has a low potential for dependence, but it can cause tolerance and withdrawal if used for a long time. It should be used only as prescribed. - Myth: You can drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
Fact: Alcohol should be avoided because it increases drowsiness and can lead to dangerous sedation.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Hydroxyzine hydrochloride oral drops
- Hydroxyzine hydrochloride syrup
Brand Alternatives
- Atarax
- Vistaril
- Hydroxyzine