Feeling itchy? Anxious? Maybe having trouble sleeping? You might have heard of hydroxyzine, but what *is* it actually used for? While often thought of as just an antihistamine for allergies, hydroxyzine is a versatile medication with several applications.
Primarily, it's used to treat allergic reactions like hives, itching, and contact dermatitis by blocking histamine, a chemical your body releases during an allergic reaction. But hydroxyzine also boasts sedative and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. This makes it effective in managing anxiety symptoms, especially in the short term, and can even be used as a pre-operative sedative to help you relax before a procedure.
So, while itching and allergies are common uses, hydroxyzine’s calming effects extend its usefulness to managing anxiety and promoting sleep. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new medication, including hydroxyzine, to ensure it's the right choice for you and to discuss potential side effects.
