Hydroxyzine and Alcohol: What You Need to Know

If seasonal allergies have you sneezing and rubbing your eyes, you might find that common antihistamines like Benadryl don't provide enough relief. Or maybe stress has you binge-watching videos late into the night, unable to sleep. You're not alone—and for many, hydroxyzine (often prescribed as Vistaril) offers a mild, user-friendly solution for anxiety and insomnia. But what happens if you mix it with alcohol? Let's explore.

What Is Hydroxyzine?

Hydroxyzine is a prescription antihistamine that blocks histamine, a substance your body releases during allergic reactions. Its side effects are generally mild and may include:

• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Skin rash

Like other sedating antihistamines, hydroxyzine also affects acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory, learning, and motor control. This can lead to blurry vision, confusion, or constipation, which is why it's usually avoided in people over 65.

Beyond allergies, hydroxyzine works as a bronchodilator (opening airways), an antiemetic (preventing vomiting), and a fast-acting anxiety reliever. Its versatility makes it one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the U.S.

The Medical Multitasker

Hydroxyzine stands out for its mild side effects and multiple uses:

• Allergy relief: It effectively eases allergy symptoms by blocking histamine.
• Anxiety reduction: Studies show it's a safe, non-habit-forming alternative to benzodiazepines for generalized anxiety.
• Sleep aid: Its sedative properties help with short-term insomnia, especially when other treatments haven't worked.

Antihistamines and Alcohol: A Risky Mix

Combining alcohol with antihistamines is generally not advised. Alcohol can enhance sedative effects and worsen allergic reactions. In fact, research shows that some sedating antihistamines impair driving more than alcohol does.

Mixing Hydroxyzine With Alcohol

There are three key reasons to avoid combining hydroxyzine and alcohol:

• Excessive sedation: Both are depressants, increasing drowsiness and impairment.
• Intensified side effects: Alcohol's dehydrating effect can worsen dry mouth and other symptoms.
• Heart effects: Hydroxyzine may affect heart rhythm in rare cases, and alcohol can raise heart rate and blood pressure.

What If You Have One Drink?

While a single drink might not cause drastic effects, it's safest to avoid alcohol entirely when taking hydroxyzine. Everyone reacts differently, and it's better to be cautious.

If You've Already Combined Them

If you've mixed the two, stay calm. Rest and avoid activities like driving or cooking. Have someone check on you, and seek medical help if you experience trouble breathing, irregular heartbeat, or other concerning symptoms.

Alcohol's Impact on Hydroxyzine's Benefits

Alcohol can undermine the very conditions hydroxyzine is meant to treat:

• Allergies: Alcohol can increase histamine levels and worsen symptoms.
• Anxiety: While alcohol might relax you initially, it often leads to heightened anxiety later.
• Sleep: Alcohol disrupts sleep cycles, reducing restorative REM sleep.

Hydroxyzine for Alcohol Withdrawal

Doctors sometimes prescribe hydroxyzine to ease anxiety and tremors during alcohol withdrawal. Unlike benzodiazepines, it's not addictive, making it a safer option for some patients.

Tips for Staying Safe

• Avoid mixing: Keep alcohol and hydroxyzine separate to prevent compounded effects.
• Try mindfulness: Practices like meditation can reduce stress and improve sleep without alcohol.
• Nourish your body: Eat well, stay hydrated, and include nutrients that support overall health.
• Explore sober curiosity: Reducing alcohol can open the door to a healthier, more enjoyable lifestyle.

Summing Up

Dealing with allergies, anxiety, or insomnia is challenging enough without adding alcohol to the equation. By avoiding the mix and focusing on healthy habits, you can support your well-being and respect your future self.