Atarax® (
hydroxyzine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that is used for a wide variety of purposes. Healthcare providers often prescribe Atarax for
anxiety, tension, and agitation associated with certain psychiatric disorders.
This drug is particularly useful when combined with opioid pain relievers such as
morphine. Not only does Atarax help the opioid work better, thereby allowing a lower opioid dosage to be used, but it also helps relieve the itching that opioids can cause.
This medicine belongs to a group of medications commonly known as antihistamines. The anti-anxiety activity of Atarax is probably due to its effects in certain parts of the brain. It can also cause relaxation of skeletal muscles.
(Click Atarax Uses for more information about using Atarax for anxiety, to learn about other approved uses, and to find out whether this drug is used for "off-label" purposes.)
