Rx Antihistamines · First-generation H1 antihistamine
Hydroxyzine (Atarax / Vistaril): Prescription Antihistamine for Severe Itch + Sleep
Brand names: Atarax, Vistaril
Last reviewed June 9, 2026 · Medically reviewed by AllergyCenter
Get Hydroxyzine
Need a prescription?
Allergist Review — $49
For prescription strengths, combination products, or higher doses.
- Hydroxyzine HCl (Atarax) or hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)
- For severe chronic hives — pair with daytime non-sedating antihistamines
- Short-term use for flares or longer-term use under provider guidance
Reviewed within 24 hours. Rx sent to your pharmacy or shipped to your door.
Hydroxyzine is a strong, fast-acting prescription antihistamine. Allergists commonly use it for severe itching, chronic hives that don't respond to OTC antihistamines, and sleep issues caused by allergy or anxiety symptoms.
Because it's a first-generation antihistamine, hydroxyzine causes significant drowsiness — which is part of why it works so well at night. Most patients take it at bedtime or use it short-term for symptom flares.
Quick Facts
- Generic name
- Hydroxyzine hydrochloride (Atarax) or hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril)
- Brand names
- Atarax, Vistaril
- Drug class
- First-generation H1 antihistamine (sedating)
- Form
- Tablet, capsule, syrup
- OTC or Rx
- Prescription only
- Typical adult dose
- 25–100 mg every 6–8 hours as needed
- Age range
- 6 months+ (dose by age)
- Onset of action
- 15–30 minutes; effects last 4–6 hours
- Sedation
- Significant. Do not drive after taking; usually taken at bedtime or for short-term symptom control.
TL;DR — At a Glance
- ·Hydroxyzine (Atarax, Vistaril) is a prescription sedating antihistamine.
- ·Used for severe itch, chronic hives, allergy-related anxiety, and sleep issues.
- ·Typical adult dose: 25–100 mg every 6–8 hours as needed.
- ·Causes significant drowsiness — do not drive after taking.
- ·Common side effects: drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision.
Get a hydroxyzine prescription
For severe itching, stubborn hives, or sleep issues from allergies, an allergist can review your case and prescribe hydroxyzine after a $49 async consult.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a licensed healthcare provider. Do not start, stop, or change any medication without consulting a qualified provider.