Atarax Side Effects and Special Warnings
What
Atarax side effects may occur?
While
the various Atarax side effects cannot be anticipated, if any occur or increase
in intensity you should notify your physician immediately. Only your doctor can
determine if you should still take this anxiety medication in spite of the
Atarax side effects.
The most common Atarax side
effect is drowsiness which is usually temporary and may disappear within a few
days or when the dosage is reduced. Other side effects that may occur include
dry mouth, twitches, tremors and convulsions. The last two side effects usually
occur when Atarax is given at a higher then recommended dosage.
Atarax side effects: When
should this drug not be prescribed?
This anxiety medication
should not be taken during pregnancy or if you're allergic to it or if you have
ever had a sensitivity to this drug or a similar medication. You should always
make sure that your doctor is aware of any side effects to this medication.
Atarax side effects and
special warnings:
Atarax is known to increase
the effects of any drugs that depress the central nervous system. If you
currently take narcotics, non-narcotic analgesics or barbiturates in combination
with this anxiety medication, their dosage should probably be reduced. As
previously mentioned, one of the main Atarax side effects is its potential for
drowsiness. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery or do anything else
that may require a heightened level of alertness until you are absolutely sure
of how you will react to this medication.
Potential food and drug
interactions:
In addition to the
previously mentioned Atarax side effects, this medication is known to increase
the effects of alcohol. You should probably avoid alcoholic beverages when
taking this anxiety medication. Also, if that is taken in addition to certain
other drugs the effects may be increased, decreased or altered in some other
way. It is especially important to check with your doctor when combining Atarax
with the following:
-
Barbiturates such as
Seconal and Phenobarbital
-
Narcotics such as Demerol
and Percocet
-
Non-narcotic analgesics
such as Motrin and Tylenol
While the previously
mentioned concerns are not all-inclusive, you should always be cautious when you
notice any Atarax side effects.
Information adapted from The PDR Family Guide Guide to
Prescription Drugs
Additional
Information and webpage by
Paul Susic
MA
Licensed Psychologist Ph.D. Candidate
(Health and Geriatric Psychologist)
