Posted by Cam W. on August 15, 2000, at 21:04:26
In reply to Atirax for anxiety - CAM, ANYONE?, posted by Greg on August 15, 2000, at 14:47:52
Greg - I usually see Atarax™ (hydroxyzine) used as a predental procedure med for kids. .
Atarax is an antihistamine used for many medical disorders:
1) the symptomatic management of anxiety and tension.
2) as an adjunct in patients with organic disease states (eg demntia).
3) management of the agitation caused by acute alcohol withdrawl.
4) as an adjunct to reduce opiate analgesic dosage.
5) itch
6) allergic reactionsAtarax's tranquilizing effects are thought to be due to suppression of subcortical levels of the CNS (deep in the brain). It is not considered as effective as the benzodiazepines, but it still does work. It is a non-addictive CNS depressant. It has additive effects when taken with other CNS depressants (eg alcohol, benzos, etc.).
Atarax also has muscle relaxant properties and is used sometimes as an antispasmotic. It also has anticholinergic properties which can cause sedation and dry mouth, especially at the start of therapy.
One interesting thing about Atarax is that it's carboxylic acid metabolite is cetirizine (Reactine™, Zyrtec), the non-sedating antihistamine.
Hope this is what you want, Greg. I hope it works for you. It works well in children and you are still a child at heart (meant in a good way). - Cam.
poster:Cam W.
thread:42981
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000811/msgs/43012.html