Definition

Noun 1. A pharmaceutical drug: Hydroxyzine is a medication belonging to the antihistamine class. It is primarily used for its sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. 2. A therapeutic agent: It is prescribed to treat conditions such as anxiety, tension, and pruritus (itching) associated with allergic conditions. It is also used to manage nausea, vomiting, and motion sickness.

Usage Examples

• As a treatment for anxiety: "The doctor prescribed hydroxyzine to help manage her acute anxiety symptoms."
• As an anti-itch medication: "For the severe hives, the dermatologist recommended hydroxyzine to relieve the itching."
• As a pre-operative sedative: "The patient was given hydroxyzine before surgery to reduce anxiety and nausea."

Advanced Usage

• Pharmacological class: Hydroxyzine is classified as a first-generation H1-receptor antagonist (antihistamine). Its effects on anxiety are related to its additional activity as a serotonin antagonist.
• Administration: It is available in oral forms (tablets, syrup) and as an intramuscular injection.

Variants and Related Words

• Hydroxyzine hydrochloride: The specific salt form commonly used in pharmaceutical preparations.
• Atarax™: A common brand name for hydroxyzine hydrochloride tablets/syrup.
• Vistaril™: A common brand name for hydroxyzine pamoate capsules and oral suspension.

Synonyms

• Anxiolytic (noun): A substance that reduces anxiety. (Hydroxyzine is one type of anxiolytic.)
• Sedative (noun): A substance that promotes calm or sleep.
• Antipruritic (noun): A substance that relieves itching.

Notes on Meaning

• Primary Meaning: The core meaning refers to the specific chemical compound used as a medication.
• Contextual Meaning: Its implied purpose (e.g., as an anti-anxiety drug vs. an anti-itch drug) depends entirely on the medical context in which it is mentioned. It is not used in general, non-medical language.

Noun

1. a drug (trade names Atarax and Vistaril) used as a tranquilizer to treat anxiety and motion sickness