Many people take prescription medications to manage the symptoms of medical and mental health conditions. Some prescription drugs have the potential for abuse, health complications, and dangerous interactions when combined with other substances.
Hydroxyzine is an FDA-approved prescription drug used to treat allergic reactions, anxiety, and other conditions. Millions of people receive a prescription for hydroxyzine each year.
Medical experts recommend avoiding using hydroxyzine and alcohol together. This article will explore the potential risks of this combination. You will learn:
- The effects and dangers of hydroxyzine
- How to recognize and treat hydroxyzine abuse
- The effects of alcohol
- The risks of alcohol abuse and addiction
- How to recognize and treat alcohol addiction
- The dangers of mixing hydroxyzine and alcohol
- How to determine if you or a loved one requires substance abuse treatment
- Where to find comprehensive substance abuse treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our treatment and recovery support programs. Find resources, ask questions, or schedule appointments by reaching out to our intake team today.
What is Hydroxyzine?
Hydroxyzine pamoate is an FDA-approved prescription medication. Manufacturers sell it under several brand names, including:
- Vistaril
- Qiana
- Atarax
The most common dosage and form of hydroxyzine is a 0.25 mg tablet. Medical professionals will determine the correct dosage for each individual by considering factors like general health, weight, and age.
Hydroxyzine is a versatile medication used to treat several conditions, including:
- Opioid withdrawal
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Eczema
- Allergies
It can provide sedation, relaxation, and itch relief, making it a good treatment option for people with a range of conditions.
Like all medications, hydroxyzine has a risk of side effects. Common hydroxyzine side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Weight gain
Some people may also experience more severe side effects of hydroxyzine, including:
- Confusion (most common among older adults)
- Hallucinations
- Tremors
- Changes in urination
- Mood changes
- Restlessness or agitation
Medical professionals believe hydroxyzine is safe when taken as prescribed. However, misusing hydroxyzine or combining it with other drugs increases the risk of short and long-term health complications.
Doctors may advise patients to avoid combining hydroxyzine with:
- Opioids
- Sedatives
- Alcohol
- Other depressants
Healthcare professionals believe there is a low risk of abuse and addiction among people taking hydroxyzine. However, people may still abuse this drug and develop symptoms of addiction.
It is essential to be aware of the risk for abuse and addiction when taking hydroxyzine. It is also crucial to be mindful of the potential for dangerous interactions with alcohol and other drugs.
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about hydroxyzine abuse or dangerous interactions with other substances. Find treatment, support, and resources by contacting our intake specialists now.
The Effects of Hydroxyzine Abuse
People who take prescription hydroxyzine may experience pleasurable side effects. Some people may like the way they feel while taking this medication. These pleasurable side effects can lead people to misuse hydroxyzine.
Examples of hydroxyzine abuse include:
- Taking higher doses of hydroxyzine than prescribed
- Taking hydroxyzine more often than prescribed
- Using it longer than prescribed
- Taking it recreationally (without a prescription)
- Combining hydroxyzine with other drugs or alcohol
Medical professionals believe hydroxyzine is safe when taken as prescribed. However, hydroxyzine abuse creates a higher risk of serious complications, including overdose.
A hydroxyzine overdose is a serious medical emergency. It is important to know the signs of an overdose and seek emergency medical treatment.
Signs of a hydroxyzine overdose include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Difficulty staying awake
- Severe dry mouth
- Dehydration
- Blurry vision or double vision
- Dangerously low blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Shock
- Hallucinations
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Respiratory depression (slow, shallow, or stopped breathing)
Hydroxyzine slows activity in the central nervous system (CNS). Taking larger doses or taking it differently than prescribed may cause serious, even life-threatening complications.
If you or a loved one takes prescription hydroxyzine, follow your medical professional’s guidance. If you misuse hydroxyzine, seek treatment to stop.
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn about the risks of hydroxyzine abuse or to explore our comprehensive treatment and support programs.
Recognizing and Treating Hydroxyzine Abuse
Hydroxyzine is a prescription antihistamine. It reduces central nervous system (CNS) activity, which can produce a sedative effect. Doctors may prescribe it to treat anxiety, opioid withdrawal, and other conditions.
People who take prescription hydroxyzine may like how they feel. They may experience feelings of relaxation and calm. Some people abuse hydroxyzine by taking higher doses or taking it differently than prescribed in other ways.
Medical experts do not believe hydroxyzine is physically addictive. However, some people may come to rely on the relaxing effects of this drug. They may use it to help them relax or sleep, or take it for other reasons.
Recognizing the signs of hydroxyzine abuse can help you seek treatment for yourself or a loved one. Some common signs of hydroxyzine misuse include:
- Running out of prescription hydroxyzine earlier than expected
- Taking hydroxyzine differently than prescribed
- Taking hydroxyzine recreationally (without a prescription)
- Exhibiting physical symptoms of hydroxyzine abuse, such as lethargy, drowsiness, or dizziness
- Buying or stealing hydroxyzine
- Needing to use higher doses to get the desired effects
- Doing risky things while under the influence of hydroxyzine, such as driving, working, or operating heavy machinery
People who abuse hydroxyzine for a prolonged period may have trouble quitting when they choose. Prescription drug abuse can be a complex condition that requires comprehensive treatment.
Treatment for hydroxyzine abuse might include:
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications to manage detox safely
- Behavioral therapies to explore the roots of substance abuse
- Relapse prevention education
- Individual, family, and group counseling
- Holistic therapies, like mindfulness, exercise, nutrition support, and creative expression
- Aftercare and relapse prevention planning
People may attend inpatient or outpatient treatment programs, depending on their needs. Finding the correct type of treatment and ongoing support for each person is critical.
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about substance abuse treatment and recovery resources. Explore our programs and schedule an intake by reaching out to our team today.
What is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in the United States. Alcohol is legal for sale and use in most areas of the country. Surveys show that most adults in the US report drinking alcohol at least occasionally.
Millions of people in the United States struggle with alcohol abuse and addiction. Alcohol abuse includes patterns of consuming alcohol that may cause harm. But how much alcohol is too much? And what defines alcohol abuse?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises people to drink alcohol in moderation. It defines moderate drinking as:
- For men, drinking two or fewer alcoholic drinks per day
- For women, consuming one or fewer alcoholic beverages per day
A “drink” is not simply any beverage containing alcohol. It is a specific measurement of alcohol. The CDC defines a “drink” as:
- 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits
- 12 ounces of beer
- 5 ounces of wine
The CDC defines heavy drinking as:
For men, consuming fifteen or more alcoholic drinks in a week
For women, consuming eight or more alcoholic drinks in a week
Heavy drinking is associated with a range of severe health conditions, including:
- High blood pressure
- Heart problems
- Liver problems
- Cognitive issues
- Reduced immunity
Regular heavy drinking may also change how the brain and body work. These changes can make it very hard for a person to stop drinking when they want to.
Over a period of heavy drinking, a person may develop tolerance (needing more alcohol to get the desired effects) and physical dependence. Once someone develops dependence, it can be very challenging to stop drinking.
Most people require comprehensive, intensive support and treatment to overcome alcohol dependence. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our addiction treatment and support programs.
The Effects and Risks of Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol affects the body in many different ways. Here is an overview of how alcohol affects various bodily symptoms.
Digestion
Alcohol abuse impacts the gastrointestinal system in several ways. Heavy alcohol use can irritate the stomach lining. This may cause appetite loss, nausea, and vomiting. People who drink heavily may also experience diarrhea.
Excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to chronic inflammation in the stomach and digestive tract. This may cause ulcers in the stomach and intestines. People who drink heavily may develop a painful, chronic condition called alcoholic gastritis..
Central nervous system
Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, resulting in a range of side effects, including:
- Slow reaction times
- Poor balance
- Loss of coordination
- Slurred speech
- Impaired judgment
The depressant effects of alcohol increase as people consume more alcohol. Heavy alcohol use can lead to dangerous or life-threatening respiratory depression and other CNS effects. Combining alcohol and other sedatives, including some prescription drugs, may increase the risk of complications or overdose.
Psychological health
People may experience pleasurable emotional side effects when they begin drinking. They may feel euphoric or relaxed in the beginning. However, continuing to drink can lead to unwanted emotional symptoms, including erratic emotions, mood swings, and a loss of inhibitions.
Behaviors
Alcohol can impair a person’s judgment and lower their inhibitions. People may do or say things while under the influence of alcohol that they wouldn’t typically do. People may engage in risky, impulsive, or dangerous behavior, including:
- Using other substances
- Driving while intoxicated
- Unwanted or unsafe sexual behaviors
- Getting into fights
People may also consume more alcohol while intoxicated, putting them at risk of alcohol overdose, addiction, and other serious complications.
It is critical to seek treatment if you cannot control your drinking. Find treatment, support, and resources at First Step Behavioral Health now.
Can You Mix Hydroxyzine and Alcohol?
Most medical professionals advise against drinking alcohol while taking hydroxyzine. More research is needed to examine the danger of regular alcohol use while taking this prescription drug. However, experts have concerns about combining these substances.
Here are some of the potential risks of mixing hydroxyzine and alcohol.
Worsening the effects of both drugs
Alcohol and hydroxyzine both have the potential for unwanted side effects. Some potential side effects of hydroxyzine include:
- Dry mouth
- Dehydration
- Drowsiness
- Poor coordination
Some potential side effects of alcohol use include:
- Loss of coordination
- Lowered inhibitions
- Drowsiness
Combining hydroxyzine and alcohol can worsen the side effects of both substances. People may experience new or worsening side effects if they drink alcohol while taking prescription hydroxyzine.
Excessive sedation
Alcohol and hydroxyzine both suppress central nervous system (CNS) activity. Using two substances that cause CNS depression can lead to dangerous or life-threatening symptoms, including heavy sedation.
Combining hydroxyzine and alcohol can also cause a loss of coordination and impaired judgment. This can put people at increased risk of accidents, injuries, and accidental death. People may harm themselves or others while driving, operating machinery, or engaging in other dangerous behaviors.
Impulsive behaviors
Alcohol and hydroxyzine can affect a person’s judgment. Mixing these substances can increase the risk of impulsive or erratic behaviors. Impulsive behaviors may cause serious harm to others or jeopardize a person’s well-being and safety.
Respiratory depression
Alcohol and hydroxyzine depress the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS controls involuntary activities, including digestion, balance, and breathing.
Combining two CNS depressants, including hydroxyzine and alcohol, increases the risk of dangerous respiratory depression. People may experience slow or shallow breathing that does not supply adequate oxygen to the brain. This may result in cognitive harm, coma, or death.
Worsening medical conditions
Some research suggests that combining alcohol and hydroxyzine may worsen the symptoms of certain medical conditions, including:
- Memory problems
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
It is critical to follow a medical professional’s guidance when taking prescription medications, including hydroxyzine.
Severe reactions
People may experience severe adverse reactions when taking hydroxyzine, including:
- Hallucinations
- Unresponsiveness
- Excessive nausea and vomiting
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Erratic behaviors
- Breathing difficulties
- Rapid heart rate
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction, including hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling in the face or throat
Drinking alcohol can worsen these reactions.
These or other severe reactions are medical emergencies that require immediate intervention. Call 911 if you or a loved one exhibits these or other severe symptoms.
It can be challenging to stop abusing hydroxyzine or drinking alcohol. Prolonged substance use changes how the mind and body function. Many people require intensive treatment and support to stop using addictive substances safely.
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health team to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
Recognizing Alcohol Addiction
If you or a loved one struggles to stop drinking while taking prescription drugs, it may indicate alcohol use disorder (AUD). Heavy or regular drinking may change the way your brain and body work. Over time, it is possible to become physically dependent on alcohol.
Some signs of alcohol addiction include:
- Having cravings for alcohol
- Needing to drink more to get the desired effects of alcohol
- Doing risky things while intoxicated, like driving or having unsafe sex
- Having legal, financial, or social trouble related to your drinking
- Spending a lot of time and energy getting alcohol, drinking, or dealing with hangovers
- Using alcohol to cope with mental health symptoms, such as depression or anxiety
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you stop drinking
- Falling behind at work, school, or responsibilities at home because of drinking
- Wanting to stop drinking but finding that it feels hard to cut back or stop
- Not feeling in control of your drinking
- Continuing to drink, even when it causes significant problems in your health, relationships, or other aspects of daily life
People who exhibit some of these symptoms may be living with alcohol abuse or addiction. It can be very challenging to overcome alcohol abuse.
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find support, resources, and treatment at First Step Behavioral Health.
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment
People who struggle with alcohol abuse and addiction may find it impossible to limit or stop their drinking. They might find it hard to stop drinking when they need to take a prescription medication, such as hydroxyzine.
Recognizing the signs of drug and alcohol addiction is the first step in overcoming this complex condition. Once you recognize the signs of addiction, you can seek treatment.
Here is an overview of what to expect during each stage of alcohol addiction treatment.
Assessment
A substance abuse evaluation can identify underlying issues that may complicate treatment. It can also give treatment specialists the most accurate and general picture of a person’s mental and physical health, substance use, and more.
A substance abuse evaluation might include:
- Questions about past and current substance use, including all illegal and prescription medications you’re taking
- A personal history of substance use disorder (SUD), mental health conditions, and medical conditions
- A family history of SUD and mental health issues
- A physical examination
- Lab testing
This information can help your team create the most effective treatment plan.
Detox
A medically-supported detox program can keep people safe and on track throughout the detox process. A detox treatment plan might include:
- Round-the-clock supervision and access to care
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and increase comfort during detox
- Emotional support, including individual and group counseling
- Holistic practices that support overall well-being, such as yoga, acupuncture, mindfulness, and nutrition counseling
Detox can take days or weeks, depending on a range of factors. Intensive treatment and continuous support allow people to have a safe, complete detox.
Treatment
After completing detox, people must continue treatment. Comprehensive addiction treatment programs include evidence-based therapies. These therapies can help people understand and address the underlying roots of their substance use.
A comprehensive addiction treatment program may occur in an inpatient or outpatient setting. People may attend:
- Inpatient or residential treatment
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- Outpatient rehab programs
A treatment plan might include:
- Medication management
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, family, and group counseling
- Education about relapse prevention, coping skills, community resources, and more
- Holistic therapies like exercise, mindfulness, creative expression, or animal therapy
- Aftercare planning
Each person follows a tailored treatment plan to meet their unique needs. Tailored, comprehensive treatment can help people overcome substance abuse and move forward.
Aftercare
After attending treatment, people must develop and follow an aftercare treatment plan. An aftercare plan typically includes resources and activities that keep people engaged in recovery. An aftercare plan could consist of:
- 12-step meetings or other types of support groups
- Additional treatment programs
- Regular medical and mental health treatment
- Holistic therapies
- Sober living
Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn what to expect during SUD treatment. Explore your treatment options, find recovery support, or schedule an intake appointment today.
Do I Need Substance Abuse Treatment?
It can be challenging to determine if you or a loved one requires substance abuse treatment. It might be especially difficult to recognize prescription drug or alcohol abuse. These substances are legal and may be easy to access.
However, it is crucial to understand the potential for prescription drug and alcohol abuse. Look for signs of substance abuse, including:
- Having significant changes in sleep patterns, behavior, mood, or appearance
- Using more of a substance than before
- Having legal, social, or financial trouble related to substance use
- Increased isolation
- Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or hobbies
- Losing control over substance use, including continuing to use drugs or alcohol after experiencing harm
- Mixing drugs or alcohol, even when a doctor advises against it
- Having difficulty limiting or stopping substance use
If you recognize some of these behaviors in yourself or a loved one, seek treatment immediately. Learn about addiction, find recovery support, or explore resources by contacting the First Step Behavioral Health specialists now.
Find Substance Abuse Treatment
If you or someone you love mixes hydroxyzine and alcohol, it might be a sign of substance use disorder (SUD). SUD is a complex condition. Many people require treatment and continuing support to put it in the past.
First Step Behavioral offers comprehensive assessment, detox, and treatment programs. Learn more about our programs, ask questions, or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out today.
References:
- Science Direct: Hydroxyzine
- Wiley Online Library: Efficacy and safety of hydroxyzine for sleep in adults: Systematic review
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Hydroxyzine
- NIH: Hydroxyzine in the treatment of alcoholic withdrawal syndrome
- NIH: Efficacy and safety of hydroxyzine in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: a 3-month double-blind study
- NIH: Alcohol and Medication Interactions
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): About Moderate Alcohol Use
- CDC: Alcohol Use and Your Health
- Psychiatry Online: Overview of Alcohol Use Disorder
