Although hydroxyzine is an antihistamine, it can also be used in conjunction with anesthesia as a sedative.
Dosage
When used as a sedative premedication and following general anesthesia, the recommended dose is 50 to 100 mg for adults and 0.6 mg/kg of body weight per dose in children.
How it Works
First-generation antihistamines such as hydroxyzine can easily cross the blood-brain barrier, which means that the drug can reach the brain. As a consequence, this antihistamine has sedative and anticholinergic effects.
FAQ
How Many Mg of Hydroxyzine Should I Take for Sleep?
When hydroxyzine is used as a sedative as a premedication and following general anesthesia, the recommended dose is 50 to 100 mg for adults and 0.6 mg/kg of body weight per dose in children.
How Long Does it Take for Hydroxyzine to Work for Sleep?
The sedative effects of hydroxyzine usually kick in within 15 to 30 minutes after oral administration. Sedative effects persist for 4 to 6 hours following administration of a single dose.
How Do You Take Hydroxyzine for Sleep?
Hydroxyzine can be used as a sedative before and following anesthesia. It is not, however, intended to be taken as a sleeping pill. That being said, some physicians do prescribe hydroxyzine off-label for management of insomnia; in these instances, 25 mg to 100 mg at night is the usual dosage. Despite this off-label usage, there is limited evidence to back up its effectiveness and safety in treating sleep-related issues.
*If you’re struggling with your sleep, take this insomnia test and use the results to contact a medical professional.
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