{"id":627011,"date":"2024-02-28T09:30:10","date_gmt":"2024-02-28T14:30:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=627011"},"modified":"2025-02-26T10:33:33","modified_gmt":"2025-02-26T15:33:33","slug":"hydroxyzine-and-alcohol","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/hydroxyzine-and-alcohol\/","title":{"rendered":"Can you drink while taking hydroxyzine?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Hydroxyzine<\/span><\/a> is an <\/span>antihistamine<\/span><\/a> prescribed to manage itching caused by allergic reactions, reduce anxiety, or induce sedation before or after a medical procedure. In some cases, it may even be used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as <\/span>anxiety<\/span><\/a> and insomnia. It works by blocking histamine and affecting other chemicals, like serotonin and dopamine, in the brain.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re taking this medication, you might be wondering whether it\u2019s safe to have a drink with friends. Combining hydroxyzine and alcohol may result in worsened side effects, leading to increased sedation, drowsiness, or dizziness\u2014though the severity may vary from person to person. Keep reading to learn more about mixing this prescription with alcohol.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you drink on hydroxyzine?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Although hydroxyzine is sometimes prescribed for alcohol withdrawal symptoms, it\u2019s not recommended to mix hydroxyzine and alcohol. Hydroxyzine has the potential to cause several side effects that <\/span>slow down the central nervous system (CNS)<\/span><\/a>. Adding alcohol into the mix can increase these effects. Therefore, the FDA label and healthcare professionals advise that you avoid alcohol consumption altogether while on this medication.<\/span><\/p>\n

Even a single glass of wine may increase the medication’s sedative properties. As a result, driving or operating machinery could become particularly dangerous. It\u2019s generally safer to avoid alcohol use during treatment with hydroxyzine. Even occasional alcohol use, whether it\u2019s just one or a couple of drinks, could potentially worsen the side effects of hydroxyzine on the body.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you choose to drink on hydroxyzine, you\u2019ll want to be aware of these increased risks and the chance that alcohol abuse could lead to more serious health implications. If there are any doubts or questions, it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hydroxyzine coupons<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

What happens if you drink alcohol with hydroxyzine?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Drinking alcohol while taking hydroxyzine can increase central nervous system side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and sedation. Taking hydroxyzine alone can cause these side effects, so combining the medication with alcohol can compound these effects.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hydroxyzine can react quickly with alcohol after ingestion. This interaction can lead to <\/span>impaired motor skills<\/span><\/a> and judgment, which might last for several hours until the substances have left the bloodstream. Patients often notice hydroxyzine working within 15 to 30 minutes for allergy and anxiety symptoms, but when combined with alcohol, the usual signs of relief may become less apparent.<\/span><\/p>\n

Common side effects of mixing hydroxyzine with alcohol include:<\/span><\/p>\n