Although hydroxyzine is generally considered to be a harmless medication that isn’t habit-forming, if it is mixed with alcohol, hydroxyzine can have very serious side effects. Because of the perceived innocence of the drug, people don’t even find out if you can drink on hydroxyzine. This can lead to some grave side effects and serious harm. Read on to learn about hydroxyzine’s interactions with alcohol and the dangers of mixing hydroxyzine and alcohol, in this post by Avenues Recovery, leader in addiction rehabilitation.
What Is Hydroxyzine?
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine primarily used to treat allergic reactions. It is also used for the short-term treatment of anxiety. Hydroxyzine is sold under the following brand names:
- Hydroxyzine HCL
- Vistaril
- Atarax
- Hyzine
- Vistazine
Hydroxyzine was the go-to medicine previously used during drug detox to treat anxiety and mood-related withdrawal symptoms like restlessness and anxiety. Hydroxyzine was the main medication used to treat alcohol withdrawal until 1969, when it was replaced with Librium. Hydroxyzine primarily functions to reduce brain activity, aiding in the management of anxiety. It also blocks histamines associated with allergic reactions, especially itching. Because hydroxyzine is also a sedative, it is sometimes administered before surgery to help with sedation.
Effects of Hydroxyzine on the Body
Hydroxyzine can help alleviate symptoms related to histamine release such as:
- Itching
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
One of the notable side effects of hydroxyzine is sedation. It has a central nervous system depressant effect, leading to tiredness. This sedative property is sometimes utilized in the treatment of anxiety, tension, and pre-surgery sedation. Hydroxyzine also has muscle relaxation properties, which contribute to its potential for managing anxiety. Its antiemetic properties can help reduce nausea and vomiting in certain situations.
Hydroxyzine has mild anticholinergic effects. This means that it can interfere with the activity of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. This can lead to side effects like:
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation (particularly in older individuals)
In some cases, hydroxyzine can cause urinary retention - difficulty or inability to urinate (pee).
Effects of Alcohol on the Body
These are some of the short-term effects of alcohol on the body:
- Central Nervous System (CNS): Alcohol is a depressant that affects the brain, leading to impaired decision making, coordination, and slowed reaction times. It can also cause tiredness and dizziness.
- Cardiovascular System: Alcohol can temporarily increase one’s heart rate and dilate blood vessels, leading to feelings of warmth. However, drinking too much alcohol can contribute to high blood pressure and heart problems.
- Digestive System: Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like nausea and vomiting. It can also interfere with nutrient absorption.
- Liver: The liver metabolizes alcohol, but excessive drinking can lead to liver inflammation, fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
These are some of the long-term effects of alcohol on the body:
- Brain: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to cognitive deficits (thinking problems), memory problems, and an increased risk of neurological disorders.
- Heart: Long-term alcohol use is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, including cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease) and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat).
- Pancreas: Alcohol abuse can cause pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which can be a serious and life-threatening condition.
- Immune System: Chronic alcohol use can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
- Cancer: Chronic alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including liver, breast, esophageal, and colorectal cancer.
- Mental Health: Alcohol can contribute to mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. It can also impair sleep patterns.
Dangers of Mixing Hydroxyzine and Alcohol
Mixing hydroxyzine with alcohol can lead to some serious side effects including:
- Central Nervous System Depression: Since both hydroxyzine and alcohol are central nervous system depressants, taking them together can lead to central nervous system depression.
- Increased Drowsiness (Tiredness): Combining hydroxyzine and alcohol can intensify the sedative effects of both substances, leading to excessive drowsiness and thus, an increased risk of accidents or injuries.
- Thinking Difficulties: The combination of hydroxyzine with alcohol may result in difficulty concentrating, confusion, and memory problems.
- Breathing Difficulties: Central nervous system depression can affect respiratory function, leading to slowed breathing, which can be dangerous - especially in individuals with breathing problems.
- Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Both hydroxyzine and alcohol can cause a drop in blood pressure. Combining them may lead to further decreases in blood pressure, potentially causing dizziness and fainting.
- Increased Risk of Overdose: Combining hydroxyzine and alcohol increases the risk of unintentional overdose, as the effects of each substance are enhanced when taken together.
When Is Mixing Hydroxyzine and Alcohol Fatal?
Mixing hydroxyzine and alcohol can be fatal when the side effects become extreme. For example, mixing hydroxyzine with alcohol can increase the risk of overdose, which, in turn, can increase fatalities. Similarly, this combination of substances may cause breathing difficulties, which can lead to death in extreme cases.
Treatment Protocol for Alcohol and Hydroxyzine Abuse
To treat alcohol and hydroxyzine addiction, a thorough medical assessment is necessary to evaluate the extent of abuse, identify any underlying health issues, and assess your overall physical condition.
For alcohol dependence, medically supervised detoxification may be required to manage the alcohol withdrawal symptoms safely. This often takes place in an inpatient setting like Avenues Recovery, where healthcare professionals can monitor and manage potential complications.
Medications may be used to help manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms and cravings. For alcohol dependence, medications such as benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam) or others like naltrexone, acamprosate, or disulfiram might be considered.
To withdraw from hydroxyzine, you will most likely be advised to taper off slowly by taking smaller and smaller doses over time, with medical guidance. You may also receive guidance to improve your diet and exercise regime to help manage the symptoms of detoxing from hydroxyzine.
Therapies Used for Alcohol and Hydroxyzine Abuse Treatment
Various forms of behavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy (MET), are commonly used in addiction treatment to address the psychological aspects of substance abuse.
Participation in support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery, can provide a sense of community and encouragement for individuals in recovery.
Individual or group counseling sessions with a mental health professional can help address underlying issues contributing to substance abuse and provide coping strategies.
A comprehensive treatment plan addressing the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction is essential. It should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and circumstances.
Long-term recovery often requires ongoing support. This may include continued therapy, participation in support groups, and involvement in aftercare programs.
Recovery From Hydroxyzine and Alcohol Addiction
If you or a loved one suffer from hydroxyzine and alcohol abuse, Avenues Recovery can guide you on your path to recovery. Our staff are experts in the field of addiction and will do everything to help you reach sobriety. We have helped thousands of people recover and we can help you too.
Our dedicated and professional staff use a wide array of therapies and personalized treatment plans to give every individual the unique help they need. For unparalleled support and professionalism, contact Avenues Recovery to take your first step towards a happier, healthier, and sober future.
FAQs About Hydroxyzine and Alcohol
Hydroxyzine and alcohol: how long to wait between the two?
Wait at least 48 hours after your last dose of hydroxyzine before drinking alcohol. However, a wait time of 60 hours is recommended.
Can you take hydroxyzine with alcohol?
No, hydroxyzine should not be consumed with alcohol. Mixing these two substances can cause dangerous side effects.
When can I take hydroxyzine after drinking?
It is advisable to wait 1-2 days to take hydroxyzine after consuming alcohol.