Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) for Anxiety: What Atlanta-Area Patients Should Know

If you're concerned about habit-forming anxiety medications, hydroxyzine offers an alternative worth discussing with your psychiatrist. This antihistamine has been FDA-approved for anxiety and provides relief without the addiction risks of benzodiazepines.

How Hydroxyzine Works

Vistaril (hydroxyzine pamoate) is an antihistamine that also suppresses activity in brain regions controlling emotions. While you might associate antihistamines with allergies, hydroxyzine's calming effects make it useful for anxiety, though it's typically a short-term treatment.

Key Advantage

Unlike benzodiazepines like Xanax, hydroxyzine is not habit-forming or a controlled substance. It won't cause the same withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it, making it a safer choice for some patients.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness (most common)
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Blurred vision

Avoid driving until you know how hydroxyzine affects you, as drowsiness can be significant.

Other Anxiety Medication Options

Hydroxyzine is one of several anxiety treatment options. SSRIs and SNRIs are often preferred for long-term management because patients don't build tolerance like they might with hydroxyzine. Your psychiatrist will help determine the best approach for your needs.