section name header

Pronunciation ⬇

hye-DROX-i-zeen

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: antianxiety agents, sedative/hypnotics

Pharmacologic Classification: antihistamines

Indications ⬆ ⬇

BEERS REMS

Action ⬆ ⬇

  • Acts as a CNS depressant at the subcortical level of the CNS.
  • Has anticholinergic, antihistaminic, and antiemetic properties.
  • Blocks histamine 1 receptors.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Sedation.
  • Relief of anxiety.
  • Decreased nausea and vomiting.
  • Decreased allergic symptoms associated with release of histamine, including pruritus and urticaria.

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: Well absorbed following oral and intramuscular administration.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism/Excretion: Completely metabolized by the liver; eliminated in the feces via biliary excretion.

Half-Life: 3 hr.

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(sedative, antiemetic, antipruritic effects)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO15–30 min2–4 hr4–6 hr
IM15–30 min2–4 hr4–6 hr



Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

CV: QT interval prolongation, TORSADES DE POINTES

Derm: acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, flushing, rash

GI: dry mouth, bitter taste, constipation, nausea

GU: urinary retention

Local: pain (at IM site), abscesses at IM sites

Neuro: drowsiness, agitation, ataxia, dizziness, headache, weakness

Resp: wheezing

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Drug-Natural Products:

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)

Assessment ⬆ ⬇

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation ⬆ ⬇

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes ⬆ ⬇

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Vistaril

Canadian Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Atarax

Code ⬆

NDC Code