Hydroxizin

Additional information

Pharmacokinetics and dosing

No studies with a clinically relevant sex analysis regarding the pharmacokinetics or dosing of hydroxyzine have been found.

Effects

No studies with a clinically relevant sex analysis regarding the effects of hydroxyzine have been found.

Adverse effects

The Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee at the The European Medicines Agency has reviewed medicines containing hydroxyzine and the risk of possible effects on hearth rhythm. Hydroxyzine was associated with a small risk of QT interval prolongation and Torsade de pointes ventricular tachycardia, even at the lowest effective dose. Hydroxyzine should be avoided in patients who already have risk factors for heart rhythm disturbances [2]. Women have been associated with a longer baseline QT interval and have an increased risk for drug-induced Torsade de pointes [3].

Reproductive health issues

Regarding teratogenic aspects, please consult Janusmed Drugs and Birth Defects (in Swedish, Janusmed fosterpåverkan).

Other information

Hydroxyzine was compared with diazepam as premedication before surgery (49 men, 59 women) in a double-blind randomized manner. In men, there was no difference between the effect of diazepam and hydroxyzine. In women, hydroxyzine was better than diazepam in relieving anxiety [1].