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Hydroxyzine Pamoate Uses

Hydroxyzine pamoate, known by the brand name Vistaril, is a prescription medicine. It has the classification as an antihistamine, meaning its function is to block, or cancel out, the effects of the natural substance histamine. The body produces histamines in certain situations such as allergic reactions, and hydroxyzine pamoate is used at those times and several others.

  1. Anxiety/Stress

    • Health-care providers prescribe hydroxyzine pamoate for the temporary relief of anxiety and stress. Not a long-term solution, it's intended for those times when people encounter stressful events that will not last a significant period of time. The stress may result from a physical illness or emotional event. Do not use alcohol or narcotics with Vistaril because it is a depressant. Its ability to reduce anxiety is a side effect of the drug, caused by its suppression of histamines. It acts in some ways like a sedative, relaxing the body.

    Allergies

    • Hydroxyzine pamoate combats the symptoms of allergies: runny nose, stuffy nose, inflammation of the nose, skin inflammation, itching, hives and sneezing. Allergens, such as pollen and dust, enter the body and produce in some people an allergic reaction. The body attempts to protect itself by producing histamines, which cause the symptoms of allergies. Antihistamines, whether sold over the counter or prescribed like Vistaril, counteract those histamines.

    Pets

    • Veterinarians prescribe hydroxyzine permolate as a tranquilizer, sedative and anithistamine. Pets benefit, as it relaxes them; it relieves anxiety especially in older dogs. It can be used for temporary purposes such as grooming and bathing so the pet will relax. Any condition that causes stress to a pet gives rise to a tranquilizer. Side effects include nausea, weakness and increased thirst. Dogs may also become confused.

    Off Label

    • "Off label" refers to the practice by health-care providers of prescribing a drug for a non-approved use. The Federal Drug Administration approves prescription drugs for treatment of certain conditions, but once approved, a drug can be prescribed for other uses. Quite often, health-care providers discover that a drug works well in treating other off-label conditions. For hydroxyzine permoate, these uses include insomnia and treatment for withdrawal symptoms from opium-like substances.

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