General Drug Information and Indications

Antihistamine with anxiolytic properties (hydroxyzine HCl) for management of pruritus, urticaria, and anxiety in dogs; atopic dermatitis adjunct. First-generation H1 antihistamine with anxiolytic properties (hydroxyzine HCl). Mechanism: H1 receptor competitive antagonist; also serotonin 5-HT2A antagonist and anticholinergic effects → sedation, antipruritic, and anxiolytic effects. Hepatically metabolized to cetirizine (active metabolite). Key information Hydroxyzine — see hydroxyzine entry. Antihistamine. May cause sedation. Safe long-term.

How to Give this Medication

Oral: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Tablets may be crushed. IM: deep IM injection. Administer 2–3 times daily. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects

CNS sedation (common — H1 and anticholinergic). Anticholinergic effects: dry mouth, urinary retention, GI hypomotility. GI: vomiting (uncommon). Tachycardia. Avoid in horses — may cause CNS excitability/agitation.

Precautions

For animals Avoid in horses — CNS excitability (paradoxical reaction) reported. Use with caution in patients with glaucoma or urinary obstruction (anticholinergic effects). Use with caution in hepatic impairment. CNS depressant — avoid concurrent sedatives. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Antihistamine — may cause drowsiness if accidentally ingested. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Hydroxyzine overdose causes excessive sedation.

Hydroxyz Hcl Tab dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
HYDROXYZINE HCL TAB 50MG50 MGTablet1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)