Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine used to control itching in animals with atopy or other allergies. It may also be used as a mild sedative.

Dogs and Cats

Hydroxyzine is used for the treatment of allergies, itching, atopy and dermatitis with fewer side effects than corticosteroids.

hydroxyzine

Side effects may include sedation, lack of coordination, vomiting, lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite and diarrhea. These effects may decrease with time. Your pet may develop fine rapid tremors, whole body tremors and rarely, seizures. Notify your veterinarian if these effects occur.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian

Hydroxyzine should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian.

This medication does not have an FDA approved indication for use in animals, but it is a common and acceptable practice for veterinarians to prescribe this human medication for use in animals.

Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet. Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely. The following drugs can potentially interact with hydroxyzine: CNS depressants, anticholinergic agents, and epinephrine. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together. Not for use in animals with allergies to antihistimines. Hydroxyzine should be used with caution in animals with glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, bladder-neck obstruction, pyeloduodenal obstruction, cardiac arrhythmias or heart failure.

Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform Pets Choice and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies. If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your veterinarian immediately or go to a veterinary emergency clinic. Symptoms may include but are not limited to: swollen lips, tongue, face, airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; vomiting; widespread hives and itching.