Hydroxyzine

Antihistamine
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Hydroxyzine is a antihistamine found in 7 medicines sold in India, such as Atarax 25, Hicope 25, Hynorax 25. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves itching and hives; also eases anxiety.

How it works

A sedating antihistamine for itching (hives, eczema) and short-term anxiety.

How to take it

Usually 10 to 25 mg up to three or four times a day, or at night.

Common side effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache

Get medical help straight away if

  • Fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting
  • Confusion

Be careful

Causes drowsiness; avoid driving and alcohol.

Other medicines and interactions

Heart rhythm risk with other QT-prolonging medicines. More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid in early pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Brands of Hydroxyzine (7)

Atarax 25Hicope 25Hizet 25Hydil 25Hynorax 25Hyrax 25Hyzine 25

Common questions

What is Hydroxyzine used for?

Relieves itching and hives; also eases anxiety.

How does Hydroxyzine work?

A sedating antihistamine for itching (hives, eczema) and short-term anxiety.

How should I take Hydroxyzine?

Usually 10 to 25 mg up to three or four times a day, or at night.

What are the side effects of Hydroxyzine?

Common: Drowsiness, dry mouth, headache. Get help straight away for: Fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, confusion.

Does Hydroxyzine interact with other medicines?

Heart rhythm risk with other QT-prolonging medicines. More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives.

Is Hydroxyzine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Avoid in early pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Does Hydroxyzine need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Hydroxyzine?

Atarax 25, Hicope 25, Hizet 25, Hydil 25, Hynorax 25, Hyrax 25, Hyzine 25.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.