Hydroxyzine (typically sold under the brand name Vistaril) is an antihistamine medication commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, allergies, nausea, and sleep disorders. The form most commonly prescribed for these conditions is hydroxyzine pamoate, which is not habit-forming and typically does not cause traditional withdrawal symptoms. However, some people may notice a return of their original symptoms, such as anxiety or insomnia, or some unwanted side effects when they stop taking the medication.
People may want to reduce or stop their medication for a variety of reasons. They may be switching to a new medication, finding the current drug ineffective, or encountering unwanted Hydroxyzine side effects. Or they simply may not want to take traditional prescription drugs to manage their symptoms any longer. Whatever your reason, it’s important to talk to your doctor before discontinuing a drug like Vistaril or its generic, Hydroxyzine. A carefully planned withdrawal process can minimize any severe withdrawal symptoms.
Keep reading to learn more about Hydroxyzine withdrawal symptoms and to hear how you can safely stop taking it with minimal side effects.
Can You Stop Taking Hydroxyzine Immediately?
No, you shouldn’t stop taking Hydroxyzine cold turkey or suddenly reduce your dosage without consulting with your doctor. While it isn’t as common, stopping Hydroxyzine suddenly may cause withdrawal-like symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider for a dosage taper just to be safe and consider exploring Hydroxyzine alternatives to find a better treatment for your condition.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Hydroxyzine
Compared to some other anxiety drugs, Hydroxyzine withdrawal is typically pretty mild for most people, yet it can still present troublesome symptoms. While symptoms can vary, it’s possible to have an unpleasant reaction that leaves you with physical or emotional symptoms.
Physical symptoms of Hydroxyzine withdrawal:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
Emotional symptoms of Hydroxyzine withdrawal:
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
Severe symptoms of Hydroxyzine withdrawal:
- Depression
- Severe anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Flu-like symptoms
While these signs are a bit more rare, they are serious withdrawal symptoms to be aware of before stopping Hydroxyzine. If you experience any of the above as you taper off Hydroxyzine, reach out to your doctor immediately.
How Long Does Hydroxyzine Withdrawal Last?
A Hydroxyzine withdrawal timeline depends on several things, including factors like your dosage, how long you’ve been taking it, and your individual health factors, including tolerance or sensitivity. On average, withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to around a week, but there’s no strict rule or guideline you can count on. Some cases may mirror the unpredictable timeline of alcohol withdrawal.
Factors that can impact the duration of withdrawal symptoms include:
- Dosage: High doses of this drug can lead to more obvious and harsher withdrawal effects in some people.
- Length of use: Prolonged use might mean your adjustment period is longer.
- Individual differences: Your metabolism, age, overall health, and other conditions can impact how quickly you’ll adjust to reducing or stopping this medication.
- Concurrent medications: Other medications like prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs or supplements may interact with the withdrawal process. Be sure to let your doctor know about every medication you’re on.
How to Manage Withdrawal Symptoms from Hydroxyzine
Effectively managing withdrawal symptoms from Hydroxyzine requires a strategic, combined strategy of tapering, self-care, professional guidance, and support. The following tactics will make the process easier, smoother, and more comfortable.
Taper the dosage gradually
Your doctor will create a taper schedule so you can safely and slowly reduce your dosage in a way that minimizes withdrawal symptoms. Tapering off a drug with a clear treatment plan gives your body time to adjust to each new, reduced level, minimizing Hydroxyzine withdrawal symptoms.
Manage anxiety symptoms
If you were taking Hydroxyzine for anxiety, it’s important to closely monitor and manage your symptoms as you taper down.
Effective ways to manage Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) withdrawal symptoms include:
- Using deep breathing exercises for anxiety
- Practicing mindfulness meditation
- Enjoying creative outlets like art, music, or dance
- Journaling for anxiety
- Joining a support group
“Do not stop medicine on your own. Follow the taper schedule your psychiatrist recommends. The use of CBT and learning relaxation techniques is always helpful, especially when planning to taper off medication to have a good control of anxiety symptoms.”
– Talkspace psychiatrist, Dr. Muhammad Munir
Maintain a consistent sleep routine
Sleep is critical for maintaining mental health, and it becomes even more important when you’re trying to stop taking a drug like Hydroxyzine. A common side effect of Hydroxyzine withdrawal is insomnia, which can be improved by creating a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine.
If you’re experiencing any sleep disturbance while tapering off Hydroxyzine, try:
- Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends
- Reducing or eliminating screen time at least 1 hour before bed
- Including calming activities in your nighttime routine, like reading, meditating, or listening to soft music
Stay hydrated and eat well
Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support your body’s physical needs during a Hydroxyzine withdrawal.
Every day, focus on:
- Drinking enough water throughout the day
- Eating a healthy diet full of whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins
- Reducing the amount of caffeine you drink, especially in the afternoon and evening hours
- Avoiding sugar and highly processed foods
Get some exercise
Use natural calming aids
Natural calming aids and remedies might help you go through the withdrawal process. They can offer mild calming effects as you adjust to not having Hydroxyzine in your system. Try natural anxiety remedies like herbal teas or essential oils to alleviate withdrawal symptoms while still alleviating anxious feelings.
Try relaxation techniques
Using relaxation techniques throughout your day can reduce stress and anxiety while helping you cope with Hydroxyzine withdrawal symptoms.
Some popular — and effective — relaxing techniques can include:
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Guided imagery
- Meditation
- Tai Chi
- Qigong (a simpler version of Tai Chi if you’re just starting out)
Seek therapy
Seeking therapy when needed is an empowering step and a sign of strength. Talking to a licensed, experienced therapist helps ensure you have support when you need it. A therapist can give you tools to help manage any anxiety or mood swings you might experience while going through withdrawal.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective form of therapy that helps when you stop taking a drug like Hydroxyzine. CBT focuses on identifying unhealthy thoughts and behavior patterns so you can change them. It’s an excellent therapeutic technique for figuring out the root cause of anxiety, which can be beneficial in managing any root issues you’re dealing with.
Talk with a Licensed Psychiatrist
Hydroxyzine withdrawal can be daunting to navigate on your own. Fortunately, professional mental health assistance is readily available. If you’re struggling, a licensed therapist or psychiatrist can offer you invaluable guidance — whether you’re switching medications from Hydroxyzine to Buspirone, trying to manage withdrawal symptoms, or wanting to address the condition you’ve been taking Hydroxyzine for in the first place.
Talkspace connects you with experienced mental health professionals, like online psychiatric providers and therapists, who provide personalized care from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re looking for advice, want an alternative to a Hydroxyzine prescription, or need ongoing support, Talkspace is there to help.
Reach out to Talkspace today to connect with an online psychiatrist.
Sources:
- Velasco R, Keller JJ. New onset delusional infestation following abrupt cessation of hydroxyzine. JAAD Case Reports. 2023;39:51-52. doi:10.1016/j.jdcr.2023.06.042. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10424065/. Accessed January 18, 2025.
- Anderson E, Shivakumar G. Effects of exercise and physical activity on anxiety. Frontiers in Psychiatry. 2013;4. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2013.00027. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3632802/. Accessed January 18, 2025.
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