Atarax single dose. How long can you take Atarax without interruption? For elderly patients


The drug belongs to the group of tranquilizers (anxiolytics) and has a sedative effect.

Atarax is produced in the form of tablets in a white shell, with a score line on one side. The medication is available in cardboard packs and blisters, 25 pieces each.

One tablet contains 25 mg of the active component hydroxyzine dihydrochloride and excipients:

  • microcrystalline cellulose;
  • silicon anhydride;
  • lactose monohydrate;
  • magnesium stearate;
  • opadray.

Pharmacological profile

The active component of the drug is hydroxyzine dihydrochloride, which is a derivative of diphenylmethane. The drug is not related to CNS depressants and does not inhibit the dynamics of the subcortical zones.

It has antihistamine and bronchodilating effects. The therapeutic dose of the drug does not affect the acid-forming and secretory function of the stomach. Atarax is especially effective in the treatment of itching, urticaria, eczema and various allergic dermatitis.

The antihistamine effect in case of impaired liver function can reach 96 hours. Atarax is capable of exhibiting sympatholytic, antispasmodic and analgesic effects. As the drug works, patients experience an increase in sleep time, a decrease in muscle tone, and a decrease in the number of night awakenings.

The active component of the drug is able to be quickly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The maximum saturation of the drug in the blood is observed two hours after its use. The biological availability of the drug is 80%. Hydroxyzine is most localized in tissues, especially in the skin. The active substance is able to pass through the placental barrier. Metabolic products of the drug are found in breast milk.

Hydroxyzine undergoes biotransformation in the liver. The main metabolite is cetirizine, which blocks histamine receptors. The half-life in adults is 14 hours. About 0.8% of metabolites are excreted unconverted in the urine.

In children, the time for blood plasma purification is much shorter than in adults. The half-life in children 14 years of age is 11 hours. In elderly patients, the components of the drug are eliminated within 29 hours. Also, in elderly patients, the concentration of metabolites in the blood serum is much higher than in young patients.

The mechanism of action of Atarax is to influence the subcortical structures of the brain, resulting in a calming effect with relaxation of the skeletal muscles, blood vessels and internal organs.

Thanks to the relaxed muscles of the internal organs, pain in this area subsides. The drug suppresses the production of histamine, which contributes to allergic reactions. The drug is also able to slow down the production of gastric juice. In addition, the medication has a pronounced antiemetic effect.

Scope of application

Indications for use:

When exactly the medication is needed should be determined by the attending physician. In most cases, the drug is prescribed for anxiety and various skin diseases accompanied by severe itching.

Restrictions for prescribing the product

Contraindications for use:

  • hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, including aminophylline and cetirizine;
  • presence of porphyria;
  • pregnancy and breastfeeding;
  • hereditary galactose intolerance;
  • lactose deficiency.

The drug should be prescribed with special caution for the following diseases:

  • prostatic hyperplasia;
  • difficulty urinating;
  • high intraocular pressure;
  • predisposition to convulsive attacks;
  • predisposition to the appearance of arrhythmia;
  • parallel administration of drugs with arrhythmogenic effects.

Instructions for use

Atarax is intended for internal use. When treating anxiety, the dose of the drug is 0.05 g per day. Before the upcoming premedication, the recommended dose is 0.05-0.2 g of medication an hour before surgery.

During therapy, a dose of 0.025 g is prescribed, with a frequency of administration four times a day. The maximum single dose should not be more than 0.2 g of medication.

When treating itching in children from three to six years old, 0.001-0.0025 g of the drug per kilogram of the child’s weight is prescribed. For premedication, 0.001 g per kilogram of the child’s weight is prescribed.

The dose of the medication should be selected individually for each patient. Patients with renal and hepatic impairment should take a reduced recommended dose.

Overdose and side effects

In case of an overdose of the drug, the anticholinergic effect will increase and the functions of the central nervous system will change. With a significant overdose, nausea and vomiting occur. There is also a rapid heartbeat and increased body temperature.

All this may be accompanied by increased drowsiness, impaired pupillary reflexes and decreased blood pressure. The risk of developing cardiorespiratory collapse or coma increases.

If the above symptoms appear, gastric lavage should be done with artificial induction of vomiting. To achieve a vasopressor effect, Metaraminol or Norepinephrine is prescribed. Symptomatic therapy is also carried out in the form of administration of Naloxone, Glucose and Thiamine.

If a severe anticholinergic effect occurs, a therapeutic dose of Physostigmine must be administered. In the presence of sinus arrhythmia, Physostigmine is not prescribed.

When taking the medication, side effects may occur such as drying of the mucous membranes of the mouth, constipation, and pain during urination.

In addition, lethargy and drowsiness are very common.

The greatest manifestation of side effects is observed in the first two to three days after taking the medicine. If after a couple of days all the undesirable effects do not disappear, then it is necessary to reduce the dose of the medicine taken.

In some cases, patients experience migraine-like pain, loss of coordination, chills, profuse sweating and decreased blood pressure. None of the above side effects are life-threatening for patients. But if at least one undesirable effect occurs, you should visit your doctor.

special instructions

Atarax should be taken with caution in patients with renal impairment. The drug affects the ability to drive by motor transport. During the course of treatment with this medication, it is necessary to refrain from activities that require special attention and an immediate psychomotor reaction.

The drug is contraindicated for use when carrying a child and during breastfeeding.

Patients taking the drug should refrain from drinking alcohol. In case of liver failure, it is necessary to reduce the dose of the drug taken. The medication can be used in children from 12 months of age to treat itching.

Interaction with other drugs

The simultaneous use of the drug with antispasmodics and sleeping pills has a suppressive effect on the patient’s central nervous system.

The simultaneous use of Atarax and antipsychotic drugs causes muscle weakness and dizziness. When taken simultaneously with Cimetidine, the concentration of the active substance of the drug increases and an overdose occurs.

Parallel use of Atarax with any other drugs causes a disruption in the metabolism of the constituent components of all drugs.

  1. Lack of water in the body: consequences of deficiency
  2. How much water to drink for hypertension
  3. How can you not drink water?
  4. Water diet as a method of preventing hypertension
  5. Water consumption regimen for hypertension

As strange as it may sound, hypertensive patients need to drink water. Violation of the water-salt balance is one of the main causes of increased blood pressure. Sometimes just drinking water brings the body back to normal and lowers blood pressure.

How much water does a hypertensive patient need? Should you limit drinking water if you have hypertension, or can you drink it in large quantities?

The human body is an aquatic environment in which the amount of liquid is 75%. Muscles contain 70% water, brain cells - 85%. Every cell of the body “floats” in the intercellular fluid.

It is in a liquid environment that the main life reactions take place - the breakdown of proteins, fats, carbohydrates (in the secretory fluid of the stomach), the transfer of oxygen (by blood fluid). Water is the basis of life, and its sufficient quantity guarantees the flow of all vital processes. Water and hypertension are two interrelated concepts. When there is a lack of water, blood pressure rises and grade 1 hypertension appears.

What water does:

  • Provides nutrition and flushes out toxins;
  • Participates in the conversion of food into energy;
  • Maintains blood quantity, its viscosity, controls cholesterol deposits and regulates blood pressure;
  • Regulates body temperature;
  • Maintains the amount of intra-articular fluid, prevents arthritis and joint pain;
  • Maintains the amount of intracerebral fluid, thereby regulating thinking and coordination;
  • Ensures kidney function;
  • Maintains youth, beauty and health.

Lack of water in the body: consequences of deficiency

Lack of water is called dehydration. It forms already with a lack of 1-2% fluid. At the same time, a person’s health worsens, powerlessness appears, and sleep is disturbed. You feel tired and have a headache.

Dehydration is the No. 1 stress for any living creature. In such a situation, the body adapts by increasing pressure. At the same time, the amount of blood decreases and the vascular lumen narrows.

Often a person does not realize that he does not have enough water. Therefore, it is important to know the first signs of dehydration

  • Dry mouth and skin;
  • Peeling skin

Subsequent symptoms:

  • Loss of energy, weakness;
  • Headache;
  • Poor digestion;
  • High blood pressure;
  • Edema (in conditions of lack of fluid, the body stores salts and water).

Lack of water leads to cell dehydration and capillary closure. Therefore, prolonged deficiency, chronic dehydration leads to various pathologies, diseases that are incurable by modern medicine.

One of the reasons for the formation of high blood pressure is a lack of fluid in the body. Often high blood pressure can be reduced by simply drinking water. How does a lack of fluid cause high blood pressure?

Water maintains the required volume of all internal media of the body. It replenishes the composition of the blood, makes it less viscous, and increases fluidity through the vessels. With a lack of water, two pathological processes are formed:

  • Blood thickening and loss of cholesterol clots on the walls of blood vessels;
  • Vasoconstriction (due to a decrease in the amount of blood);
  • This narrowing is a signal of fluid loss inside the body.

Each of these processes causes an increase in pressure inside the vessels.

Drinking water alleviates the condition, reduces blood pressure, if not to normal limits, then at least to lower levels.

How much water to drink for hypertension

The amount of water a person consumes in 1 day varies from 1 to 3 liters. It is influenced by:

  • Person's weight;
  • The activity of his life (how many movements a person makes during the day);
  • Climate of residence (temperature level and air humidity);
  • Nutrition.

If you feel hungry or have a strong appetite, drink a glass of clean (spring, filtered) water and wait 20-30 minutes. During this time, water will pass through the stomach and make room for food. Thus, you will drink 3 glasses (this is about 700 - 750 ml of water).

The remaining 250 ml (another glass) can be drunk throughout the day. And if it’s hot, then more, another 2 or 3 glasses and only up to 2 liters of water per day (some of the water will come out with sweat).

Important: if you have hypertension, you need to drink unsalted water. It is salt that retains fluid in the body and forms edema. And one more thing: it is recommended to drink water in small sips, as if “chewing” it in the mouth.

How can you not drink water?

  • You should not drink water immediately after eating. This will lead to a decrease in the concentration of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. At the same time, food digestion will worsen, undigested residues and toxins will accumulate.
  • Water cannot be exchanged for tea, soda, juice, or coffee. Pure water is an irreplaceable liquid. Only it regularly cleanses the kidneys and removes toxins. All other liquids (including salted water, coffee and tea) are eliminated through the intestines.

You should also not use diuretics. The best way to increase the amount of urine and relieve swelling is to drink clean water without salt.

Well-known sayings say that all diseases are caused by nerves and lack of water. Hence the conclusion: water is a cure for all diseases. What can be cured with ordinary fresh drinking water (purified, melt, spring).

  • Obesity, overweight;
  • Headache;
  • Weakened digestion (resulting in improved metabolism);
  • High blood pressure;
  • Dry skin (resulting in increased elasticity and youthful appearance).

The role of water in the human body can only be assessed in its absence. Losing 2% of water causes extreme thirst. At 10% loss, hallucinations form. A 20% lack of fluid causes death.

Water diet as a method of preventing hypertension

A water diet is the use of water while reducing the amount of food. The volume of water should be greater than the volume of food. Typically, on a water diet you need to drink up to 3 liters of liquid per day.

Due to its weight loss effect, the water diet is used for weight loss. This not only reduces weight, but also improves the health of the entire body.

Water must be consumed half an hour before meals, and optionally throughout the day. At the same time, appetite becomes noticeably weaker, the amount of food consumed decreases. Wastes and toxins in the body's cells dissolve and are excreted through the blood into the intestines, then out.

One of the options for a water diet is therapeutic fasting while drinking water. This well-known technique helps cleanse the body of various toxins. First, the digestive system (intestines and liver) is included in the cleansing. Afterwards, the cleansed liver is able to better filter the blood and cleanse it of cholesterol. Afterwards, the blood gets the opportunity to dissolve and remove cholesterol from blood vessels through the liver.

A water diet and therapeutic fasting affect two main causes of hypertension:

  • Cleanses the digestive tract, intestines, liver. This means it reduces cholesterol levels in the blood and on the walls of blood vessels.
  • Replenishes fluid and blood volume. Dilates blood vessels and eliminates the causes of their narrowing.

Thus, when the fluid supply is replenished and the body is cleansed, the pressure returns to normal.

Water consumption regimen for hypertension

Increased pressure is a reaction to lack of water. The higher the pressure, the more water a person needs. However, you need to drink it throughout the day, dividing it into small portions (half or 1 glass at a time).

  • Drink 1 glass of water in the morning, immediately after waking up.
  • Drink 1 glass of water before meals (the number of times you eat, the number of times you need to drink water before meals). This can be from 3 to 5 glasses per day (for 3 to 5 meals).
  • Drink 1 glass of water in the evening, 1 hour after dinner, but not just before bed.

If it’s hot, the air temperature stays around 35-40°C, you need to drink more often (between meals). If you exercise and sweat, go to the sauna, jog, be sure to drink water before training (also 1 glass).

Hardening procedures such as dousing with cold water stimulate the flow of blood and lymph and accelerate the elimination of toxins. Is it possible for a hypertensive patient to pour cold water on himself? And how does the body react to contrast procedures with high blood pressure?

  • The body receives short-term stress (shake-up).
  • Adrenaline is intensively produced and released into the blood (a standard reaction to any stress).
  • The adrenal glands secrete glucocorticoids (response to stress), which initiate the release of heat and warm up the skin surfaces. Thus, bodies are released into the bloodstream that increase its viscosity (adrenaline, glucocorticoids). The blood becomes thicker and more capable of forming a clot.
  • Vessels reflexively contract, especially small surface capillaries. The pressure increases. Superficial blood flow weakens for a while, while internal blood flow increases.

Useful dousing with cold water is contraindicated for hypertensive patients. You can water individual parts of the body (arms, shins, lower body to the waist) with a relatively small increase in pressure (up to 140 mm Hg). At higher values, it is necessary to limit stressful procedures.

Reasons for increased blood pressure after eating

Why does blood pressure rise after eating? Some people, when their blood pressure (BP) rises, do not think about how food intake is related to the activity of the cardiovascular system. If such a symptom manifests itself with regularity, then you should listen to it and adjust your diet.

What is blood pressure?

Blood pressure is the force with which blood flow acts on the walls of blood vessels throughout the circulatory system. It is determined not only by the volume of blood passing through the vessels, but also by the speed of its movement, viscosity and many related indicators.

Blood pressure tends to fluctuate throughout the day. When the body is in a state of sleep, wakefulness, in the stage of physical activity and overexertion, change of environment, sexual arousal, eating, bowel movements and bladder, blood pressure may change. Each person has his own individual mechanism for regulating blood pressure, bringing it to the proper level. The normal pressure level is different for each body. Due to anatomical features, lifestyle, nutrition, and bad habits, blood pressure is kept at a certain level, which is an individual norm for each person.

Causes and symptoms of increased blood pressure

There are many reasons for blood pressure fluctuations:

  • changes in hormonal levels;
  • unbalanced diet;
  • smoking and alcohol abuse;
  • mobility of the nervous system;
  • sleep disorders;
  • increased physical activity;
  • stress;
  • disruption of the digestive system;
  • renal failure;
  • atherosclerosis;
  • heart diseases.

At moments when blood pressure rises, a person experiences symptoms, the intensity of which is determined by the level of hypertension:

  • dizziness;
  • pain in the head and neck area;
  • noise in ears;
  • increased sweating;
  • chills;
  • insomnia;
  • redness of the face and neck;
  • numbness of the limbs;
  • pulsation in the crown;
  • swelling;
  • nausea;
  • impaired coordination of movements;
  • fatigue;
  • increased heart rate;
  • shortness of breath.

Unfortunately, many are accustomed to not taking situations seriously when their blood pressure rises. Sometimes it is precisely this attitude to the first symptoms that leads a person to persistent arterial hypertension. The disease has the ability to progress over time and lead to severe complications.

What causes high blood pressure after eating?

Why does blood pressure rise after eating? Some people experience increased blood pressure during and after meals. A number of factors contribute to this:

  1. A large number of spices in food. They affect the water balance in the body, retaining fluid and causing a feeling of thirst.
  2. Alcohol. Ethanol has the ability to expand the walls of blood vessels, but as soon as this happens, they immediately spasm and blood viscosity increases.
  3. Tea or coffee at the end of the meal. Tonic drinks contain tannin and caffeine, which increases heart rate.
  4. High oxygen consumption for processing incoming food.
  5. Too high in calories. It is difficult and prolonged to be absorbed during the breakdown of fats, affecting blood viscosity and heart rate.
  6. Lack of fiber in the diet. It retains liquid in its fibers, which facilitates the process of digesting “heavy” foods.
  7. "Harmful" products. Animal fats and oily ingredients can increase the level of fat in the blood, inhibiting its movement through the blood vessels.
  8. Large volumes of liquid. All liquid consumed at the time of eating is retained in the body for a long time, changing the water balance.
  9. Abuse of sweets. Sugar-containing foods cause hormonal changes, and carbonated drinks with sugar also cause harm to the body.
  10. Binge eating. Large portions affect the functioning of all internal organs. After eating a large amount of food, pressure is exerted on the internal organs, especially on the inferior vena cava located in the abdominal cavity.
  11. Lots of salt in dishes. Table salt changes the sodium-potassium balance in the body and retains fluid.
  12. Eating at inappropriate times. Eating late dinners or snacking at night fills the stomach with food that it begins to digest as the body prepares for sleep.

From all of the above, we can come to the conclusion that the increase in blood pressure after eating depends on the quality and volume of food consumed.

What to do?

People who have a tendency to high blood pressure need to independently regulate their diet and meal times. You should not eat food randomly during the day, on the go, dry food, or before bed.

Meals should be fractional, i.e. you can eat in small portions up to 5-6 times during daylight hours; their volume can be reduced to 200–300 grams of products. Overeating and accompanying meals with television programs and computer games should be avoided. It is necessary to include low cholesterol foods in your menu. Try to eat more fiber, fortified foods. Foods rich in animal protein must be “diluted” with natural juices and vegetable dishes, which will facilitate easy digestibility.

Hypertensive patients should give up alcohol and smoking. The consumption of tonic drinks - tea, cocoa and coffee - should be limited, or at least avoided in the evening, when blood pressure tends to rise.

You should also give preference to foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which will help neutralize excess cholesterol in the blood.

The intestines must be emptied in a timely manner. Congestion in the large intestine leads to increased blood pressure, since this part of the body is essentially a “depot” of blood. Wastes and toxins formed during the processing of difficult-to-digest food and the presence of stagnant processes in the gastrointestinal tract also provoke an increase in blood pressure. If the act of defecation has not occurred for a long time, and the person continues to eat, then blood pressure tends to increase.

Atarax: instructions for use and reviews

Latin name: Atarax

ATX code: N05BB01

Active substance: hydroxyzine

Manufacturer: USB Pharma S.A. (USB Pharma, S.A.) (Belgium), Laboratoires Thissen (Belgium)

Updating the description and photo: 19.08.2019

Atarax is a tranquilizer used to relieve itching, reduce anxiety and psychomotor agitation. It has a moderate anxiolytic, as well as antiemetic, sedative, analgesic, antihistamine and m-anticholinergic effect.

Release form and composition

Dosage forms of Atarax:

  • film-coated tablets: oblong, white, with a transverse line on both sides (25 pcs. in blisters of PVC-Al foil, 1 blister in a cardboard pack);
  • solution for intramuscular administration: transparent, colorless (2 ml in transparent glass ampoules, 6 ampoules in plastic trays, 1 tray in a cardboard box).

Composition of 1 tablet:

  • active substance: hydroxyzine hydrochloride – 25 mg;
  • auxiliary components: lactose monohydrate, MCC (microcrystalline cellulose), magnesium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide (anhydrous);
  • shell: Opadry Y-1-7000 (titanium dioxide, hypromellose, macrogol 400).

Composition of 1 ampoule (2 ml solution):

  • active substance: hydroxyzine hydrochloride – 100 mg;
  • auxiliary components: sodium hydroxide and water for injection.

Pharmacological properties

Pharmacodynamics

Hydroxyzine is a diphenylmethane derivative that inhibits the activity of certain subcortical zones. It has moderate anxiolytic activity and a moderate inhibitory effect on gastric secretion. It has a sedative, H1-histamine-blocking, M-anticholinergic and antiemetic effect. It also has an antipruritic effect against urticaria, eczema and dermatitis.

In patients with insomnia and anxiety, polysomnography demonstrates an increase in sleep duration and a decrease in the frequency of night awakenings after a single or repeated dose of the drug at a dose of 50 mg. A decrease in muscle tension in patients with anxiety was noted when using Atarax at a dose of 50 mg 3 times a day.

Hydroxyzine does not cause addiction or mental dependence. With long-term treatment, it does not cause deterioration in cognitive functions and the development of withdrawal syndrome.

The sedative effect develops within 30–45 minutes.

The H1-histamine blocking effect occurs approximately 1 hour after taking the drug. In liver failure, this effect can last up to 96 hours after a single dose.

Hydroxyzine has a moderate analgesic effect and has sympatholytic and antispasmodic activity.

Pharmacokinetics

After a single IM dose of 50 mg, the maximum concentration (Cmax) is approximately 65 ng/ml.

Hydroxyzine, when taken orally, is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The maximum concentration is observed after 2 hours and is 30 ng/ml in adults when taking a dose of 25 mg, 70 ng/ml when taking a dose of 50 mg. Bioavailability – 80%.

Hydroxyzine is concentrated more in tissues than in plasma. The distribution coefficient in adults is 7–16 l/kg. Passes through the blood-brain barrier and the placenta, concentrating predominantly in fetal rather than maternal tissues. Hydroxyzine metabolites pass into breast milk. After oral administration, the drug penetrates well into the skin, where the concentration is much higher than the level in the blood serum (both after a single and after multiple doses).

The drug is metabolized in the liver, the main metabolite (45%) is cetirizine, a pronounced H1 blocker. The total clearance is 13 ml/min/kg. Only 0.8% of hydroxyzine is excreted unchanged through the kidneys. Cetirizine is excreted in the urine mainly unchanged (16% of the intramuscular dose of the drug, 25% of the dose taken orally).

The total clearance of hydroxyzine is 13 ml/min/kg. In children this figure is 2.5 times less than in adults.

The half-life (T ½) in adults is on average 14 hours (from 7 to 20 hours), in children aged 14 years – 11 hours, in children aged 1 year – 4 hours.

In elderly patients, the distribution coefficient is 22.5 l/kg. Indicator T ½ = 29 hours.

In the presence of concomitant liver diseases, the T ½ value increases to 37 hours, the concentration of metabolites in the blood serum is higher than in patients with normal hepatic function.

In renal failure, the AUC (area under the concentration-time curve) does not change significantly, but the duration of cetirizine exposure increases. Hemodialysis does not remove this metabolite from the body.

Indications for use

According to the instructions, Atarax is prescribed to adults:

  • Relief of psychomotor agitation, anxiety, increased irritability and feelings of internal tension in mental, neurological and somatic diseases;
  • Treatment of withdrawal syndrome in chronic alcoholism, which is accompanied by psychomotor agitation;
  • Symptomatic treatment of skin itching.

In pediatrics, the drug is used for premedication and symptomatic treatment of itching of allergic origin.

Contraindications

The use of Atarax is contraindicated in case of porphyria, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, pregnancy, as well as during labor and lactation.

The drug is used with caution:

  • Myasthenia;
  • Predisposition to the development of arrhythmia;
  • Difficulty urinating;
  • Increased intraocular pressure;
  • Tendency to seizures;
  • Prostatic hyperplasia with clinical manifestations;
  • Constipation;
  • Dementia.

Instructions for use of Atarax: method and dosage

Solution for intramuscular administration

In the form of a solution, Atarax is administered intramuscularly.

  • premedication: 1 mg/kg body weight 1 hour before surgery, if necessary, the same dose can be administered the night before anesthesia;
  • symptomatic treatment of itching: children 1–6 years old – 1–2.5 mg/kg per day in several doses, children over 6 years old – 1–2 mg/kg per day in several doses.
  • premedication: 50–200 mg 1 hour before surgery, if necessary, the same dose can be administered at night before anesthesia;
  • symptomatic treatment of itching: at the beginning of treatment - 25 mg 1 time per day, if necessary, increase the dose to 25 mg 4 times per day;
  • symptomatic treatment of anxiety: morning and afternoon – 12.5 mg, at night – 25 mg (total daily dose – 50 mg). In serious cases, the daily dose may be increased to 300 mg.

The maximum permissible doses of Atarax: single - 200 mg, daily - 300 mg.

The initial dose for elderly patients is reduced by 2 times.

A dose reduction is required in patients with renal and/or hepatic insufficiency. In case of insufficient liver function, a dose reduction of 33% is recommended.

Film-coated tablets

Atarax is taken orally. The initial daily dose for the symptomatic treatment of itching is 25 mg, if necessary it can be increased to 100 mg (4 doses of 25 mg), while the maximum dose should not exceed 300 mg per day and 200 mg at a time.

The daily dose of Atarax for adults to relieve anxiety symptoms is 50 mg and in severe cases can be increased to 300 mg. A quarter of the daily requirement should be taken in the morning and afternoon, the rest - before bed.

In old age, as well as in cases of renal and liver failure, it is recommended to reduce the dose of the drug by half.

For premedication for children, Atarax is prescribed at a dose of 1 mg per kilogram of body weight. Take the drug the night before anesthesia.

For the symptomatic treatment of itching in children, the drug is prescribed depending on age:

  • 3–6 years: 1–2.5 mg/kg/day (in several doses);
  • from 6 years and older: 1–2 mg/kg/day (in several doses).

Side effects

The use of Atarax may cause the following side effects:

  • Headache, drowsiness, general weakness and dizziness (if symptoms do not go away a few days after starting the drug, the dose taken must be reduced);
  • Arterial hypotension and tachycardia;
  • Nausea, changes in liver function tests;
  • Increased sweating, fever, allergic reactions and bronchospasm.

In old age, taking the drug can lead to the development of accommodation disorders, urinary retention, dry mouth and constipation.

Overdose

An overdose of Atarax is usually manifested by a pronounced anticholinergic effect, depression or paradoxical stimulation of the central nervous system. If the recommended dose is significantly exceeded, the following symptoms may occur: nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, hallucinations or confusion, tremor, involuntary motor activity, hyperthermia, tachycardia. Arrhythmia, arterial hypotension, convulsions, depression of consciousness and breathing may also occur, resulting in coma and cardiopulmonary collapse.

In case of overdose, maintenance therapy is indicated, including monitoring the patient until the symptoms of intoxication disappear and the next 24 hours, monitoring the vital functions of the body, including the respiratory tract, blood circulation, cardiovascular activity and blood pressure. Oxygen therapy is provided if necessary.

Patients with altered mental status should be assessed for concomitant use of alcohol or other drugs. In these cases, if necessary, oxygen inhalation is performed, glucose (dextrose), thiamine, and naloxone are administered.

To obtain a vasopressor effect, metaraminol or norepinephrine is prescribed. Epinephrine should not be used.

If the dose of Atarax in tablets is significantly exceeded, gastric lavage can be performed after preliminary endotracheal intubation. There is no specific antidote for hydroxyzine. Hemodialysis is ineffective.

According to the literature, with the development of severe and life-threatening anticholinergic effects that cannot be treated with other means, it is possible to use physostigmine in a therapeutic dose. However, this drug should not be used only to maintain the patient's state of wakefulness, and it is not recommended for use in patients with cardiac conduction disorders. It is important to consider that in combination with cyclic antidepressants, physostigmine can accelerate the development of attacks and cardiac arrest.

special instructions

Atarax should be used with caution in combination with drugs that depress the central nervous system: tranquilizers, ethanol, opioid analgesics, barbiturates and hypnotics.

The drug should not be taken simultaneously with MAO inhibitors and anticholinergics.

Impact on the ability to drive vehicles and complex mechanisms

During the period of use of Atarax, the speed of reactions and the ability to concentrate may deteriorate. This effect may be enhanced by concomitant use of other sedatives. During therapy, it is recommended to refrain from performing potentially hazardous activities, including driving vehicles and operating complex machinery.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Atarax is contraindicated for use during pregnancy and lactation.

Use in childhood

In the form of a solution for intramuscular administration, Atarax is contraindicated in children under 1 year old, in the form of tablets - up to 3 years old.

The dose for children is adjusted depending on age and body weight.

For impaired renal function

In patients with impaired renal function, with repeated use of the drug, accumulation of cetirizine (hydroxyzine metabolite) is possible, and therefore it is recommended to reduce the dose of Atarax for this category of patients.

For liver dysfunction

Use in old age

Drug interactions

Hydroxyzine does not affect the action of H2-histamine receptor blockers, cardiac glycosides, antihypertensive drugs, belladonna alkaloids and atropine.

The effect of hydroxyzine is potentiated by the simultaneous use of drugs that depress the central nervous system, such as ethanol, hypnotics, barbiturates, narcotic analgesics, and tranquilizers. If their combined use is necessary, individual dosage selection is required. You should refrain from drinking alcohol during treatment.

As an inhibitor of the CYPD6 isoenzyme, in high doses, hydroxyzine can interact with substrates of the CYP2D6 isoenzyme.

Hydroxyzine interferes with the action of cholinesterase inhibitors and betahistine, the pressor effect of epinephrine, and the anticonvulsant activity of phenytoin.

Cimetidine, administered twice daily at a dose of 600 mg, increases the serum concentration of hydroxyzine by 36% and reduces the maximum concentration of its main metabolite cetirizine by 20%.

Hydroxyzine is metabolized in the liver, so its concentration in the blood may increase with the combined use of inhibitors of microsomal liver enzymes.

With the simultaneous use of drugs that can cause arrhythmia, the risk of prolongation of the QT interval and the development of torsade de pointes (TdP) increases.

The CYP3A4/5 isoenzyme and alcohol dehydrogenase are involved in the metabolism of hydroxyzine, which is why it is possible to increase the plasma concentration of the drug with simultaneous use of drugs that can inhibit the CYP3A4/5 isoenzyme, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, clarithromycin, telithromycin, delavirdine, stiripentol , posaconazole, some HIV protease inhibitors, including nelfinavir, indinavir, saquinarine, ritonavir, atazanavir, saquinarine/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, tipranavir/ritonavir. However, inhibition of one metabolic pathway may be partially compensated by the activity of another.

Analogues

Analogues of Atarax are Phenazepam, Relium, Relanium, Elenium, Sibazon, Diazepam, Gidazepam, Tazepam, Grandaxin, Anvifen, Phenorelaxan, etc.

Storage conditions and periods

A prescription drug with a shelf life of 5 years should be stored at a temperature not exceeding 25 °C.

Atarax (Latin Atarax) is a common tranquilizer that is not addictive. Let's look at what this medicine helps with and whether there are any substitutes.

Indications for use

These tablets should be taken for panic attacks, insomnia, allegri, which is accompanied by itching, urticaria, nervous tics and eczema. Since these pills are sedative, they are prescribed to women during menopause. For men, it is indicated for chronic alcoholism. According to doctors, adults should drink the remedy for internal anxiety and tension, as well as before surgery.

Composition, types, how much it costs

International name of the drug (INN): Hydroxyzine hydrochloride, this is the active substance. The abstract states that excipients include:
ICC
magnesium stearate
silicon colloidal anhydride
lactose monohydrate
titanium dioxide
hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
macrogoal

The release form of the medicine comes in the form of a solution for injections and tablets. Tablets can be covered with either a hard shell or a film. Photos of each unit are available on the Internet. The tablets are produced in a blister containing 25 pieces. The package contains 1 blister. Ampoules in a package of 6 pcs. The shelf life of hydroxyziline is 5 years. The pharmacological drug is sold according to a doctor's prescription. Its cost varies from 296-318 rubles.

Analogues

There are times when an antidepressant is simply not suitable for the patient. This happens when an allergy to some component occurs or the medicine does not provide a positive effect. Therefore, you can replace Atarax with its analogue. Wikipedia suggests the following drugs:

  • 1. Grandaxin
  • 2. Afobazole
  • 3. Phenibut
  • 4. Teraligen
  • 5. Corvalol
  • 6. Adaptol
  • 7. Vidal
  • 8. Amitriptyline
  • 9. Mexidol
  • 10. Strezam
  • 11. Cipralex

How long can I take it without a break?

The description of the drug says that Atarax is a strong tranquilizer. In terms of time, you cannot drink it without a break for longer than 14 days, and preferably 10. But the main course is prescribed by a doctor, since each disease has its own nuances.

Instructions for use Atarax

You need to take the tablets an hour before meals, and administer the solution later - 30 minutes. Symptomatic anxiety in adults requires 25-100 ml during the day intermittently. The optimal dosage is 50 ml per day. Complex syndrome requires taking 300 mg per day. Before surgery, 50-200 mg may be prescribed one hour before surgery.

Symptomatic itching should be treated at a dose of 25 mg; if the drug has little effect, then increase it up to 4 times a day, as well as at night. A single dose cannot exceed 200 mg.

Dosage for children

The manufacturer does not recommend taking the medicine to children under one year of age. From one to six years old, you should give 1-2 mg per kilogram of weight, divided into morning and evening. Over 6 years of age, it is recommended to use the drug at least two mg/kg per day. For insect bites, half a tablet is enough for a child. In individual cases, a specialist prescription is needed.

For neurosis

For chronic neurosis, the medicine is prescribed in a dosage of 100-150 mg per day and always before bedtime. The sedative acts like a sleeping pill, so you should not drive a vehicle after taking it. The course of treatment for neurosis depends on the manifestation of the disease. The minimum period is 7-10 days. However, the duration of treatment can be increased, while the amount of medication per day is halved.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, Atarax is strictly prohibited. Its active drug enters the blood, placenta and milk. You must stop feeding if you take this medicine.

Atarax is a universal drug that is produced in the form of tablets and is intended for the treatment of various pathological conditions of the nervous system. This is a tranquilizer that has a sedative effect.

In contact with

Properties of the drug

The medicine is developed on the basis of hydroxyzine dihydrochloride. Atarax not a central nervous system depressant.

It is characterized by the presence of antihistamine and bronchodilator properties. If taken in a therapeutic dosage, the secretory and acid-forming functions of the stomach will not be impaired. The drug is widely used for the treatment of dermatitis of various etiologies.

If the patient has impaired liver function, the duration of the antihistamine action can reach 96 hours. Atarax has antispasmodic, sympatholytic and analgesic properties. Thanks to the universal effect of the tablets, an increase in sleep duration and a decrease in awakenings at night are ensured. This product helps reduce muscle tone.

The active ingredient of Atarax is maximum quickly absorbed from the digestive system. After 2 hours after taking the medication, the maximum concentration of the active substance in the body is observed. The active substance crosses the placenta and can also pass into breast milk.

Indications for use

The use of Atarax must be carried out in strict accordance with the indications. It widely helps with itching that occurs due to allergic reactions. This medicine is often used to treat patients after surgery.

Indications for use – disorders of the central nervous system which are accompanied by anxiety and nervous overexcitation. If a patient is diagnosed with anxiety and other disorders due to a bruise or concussion, then he needs to take this medicine.

Neurosis is often cured with the help of medication. The indication for the use of Atarax is neurotic enuresis. Pharmacists recommend prescribing the medicine to patients diagnosed with Tourette's disease.

Atarax is recommended for children if there are genetic disorders of the nervous system. If a panic attack is diagnosed with shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, fear of death and other symptoms, then medication is indicated.

Important! Atarax tablets should be used strictly in accordance with the indications, which will eliminate the possibility of developing undesirable effects.

Contraindications

Atarax tablets are characterized by the presence of contraindications, which must be taken into account before use.

If there is a hereditary predisposition, the use of the drug is not recommended. Contraindications to the use of the drug include porphyria.

It is not recommended to use the drug for angle-closure glaucoma. Representatives of the fairer sex are prohibited from using the medicine during pregnancy. If a woman is breastfeeding a newborn baby, then treatment with the drug should also be abandoned. If there is an urgent need to use the product, then during the treatment period it is recommended replace breastfeeding with artificial.

Atarax is not prescribed to children and adults if the absorption of fructose and galactose is impaired. If the patient has increased sensitivity to the components of the drug, then it is not recommended to use it. It should be taken with extreme caution when:

  • myasthenia gravis;
  • dementia;
  • difficulty urinating.

If a man has prostatic hyperplasia, then using the medicine is allowed only after prior consultation with a doctor. With increased intraocular pressure Atarax is taken with caution.

Attention! If the human body is predisposed to arrhythmia, it is recommended to first consult a doctor.

Features of use

Instructions for use contain information about the features of using Atarax. The medication should be taken orally. The dosage is determined only by the doctor in accordance with the severity of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient.

If the patient experiences anxiety, it is recommended to take half a tablet every day. In case of severe pathology, 0.3 grams of the drug can be taken.

When treating itching, it is recommended to use 0.025 grams of the medicine. If the need arises, the drug can be taken 3-4 times a day at this dosage. The daily dose of the medicine should not exceed 0.3 grams. If children are being treated, the dosage of the drug should be from 0.001 to 0.0025 grams per kilogram of the baby’s weight. That, How long you need to take the pills is determined by the doctor in accordance with the individual characteristics of the patient.

After production of the medicine, its use is permitted for 5 years. The medicine should be stored in a dry place, protected from direct sunlight. During storage of the medicine, it is necessary to ensure that the temperature is no more than 25 degrees.

Undesirable effects

Taking the medication incorrectly can lead to negative consequences. The drug may have a negative effect on the cardiovascular system, which manifests itself as an increase in heartbeat and decreased blood pressure. Patients may complain of decreased vision during the course of treatment. Side effects may manifest themselves in the form of impaired accommodation.

Taking pills incorrectly can also lead to problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Some people complain of dry mouth. Some patients may experience vomiting, nausea, and impaired peristalsis.

Atarax tablets lead to hypersensitivity. Some patients are diagnosed with anaphylactic shock. During treatment with the drug, the process of urine excretion is delayed.

Treatment with Atarax in rare cases leads to bronchospasm. Enough a serious side effect is suffocation. The drug can cause a variety of neurological disorders, which manifest themselves as:

  • headache;
  • drowsiness;
  • dizziness;
  • insomnia;
  • seizures

In rare cases, the occurrence of mental disorders in the form of overexcitation, hallucinations and disorientation is observed. During the treatment period, some patients experience the appearance of rash and itching. In rare cases it is diagnosed swelling of the skin. Irrational use of the medicine leads to general disorders - fever and weakness. Patients report constant fatigue, even when doing their usual activities.

Overdose and analogues

It is necessary to take the drug in strict accordance with the doctor's recommendations. Otherwise, an overdose will occur. In this case, anticholinergic effects are enhanced in patients. Taking medication in excessively large doses can cause paradoxical stimulation or depression of the nervous system. Patients may also experience involuntary motor activity.

Excessive amounts of the drug may cause nausea and vomiting. Some people have experienced hallucinations during an overdose. Some patients noted disturbances in consciousness. Patients may diagnose arterial hypotension or arrhythmia. Quite rarely, an excess amount of medication caused tremors and seizures. Sometimes disorientation was observed in those taking Atarax.

If a patient exhibits signs of a drug overdose, he must be urgently prescribed serious treatment. In the absence of spontaneous vomiting, the patient is recommended to undergo artificial gastric lavage.

In this case, it is recommended to carry out general measures with the help of which the vital functions of the body are maintained. In case of overdose, it is recommended to give activated carbon in the amount of 1 tablet per 10 kilograms of the patient’s weight. It is also recommended to monitor the patient's condition throughout the day.

If a patient has contraindications to the use of Atarax, then it is recommended to use analogues for its treatment. In most cases, the following is recommended:

  • Afobazole;
  • Sedavita;
  • Sedamina;
  • Herbastress;
  • Nervonorm, etc.

The selection of analogues must be carried out in strict accordance with the indications. Self-prescribing the drug is strictly prohibited.. That is why, if there are contraindications or unwanted effects, it is recommended to seek help from a doctor.

Important! Atarax and alcohol are incompatible concepts. That is why the patient must stop drinking alcohol during the treatment period.

Useful video: features of taking Atarax tablets

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