Hydroxyzine (Atarax and Vistaril) is an antihistamine medication used to treat allergic conditions.
It is also used in the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders.
It is a histamine receptor blocker, which means it reduces the symptoms of allergies by blocking the action of histamine.
It also acts as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, a type of antidepressant drug commonly used for the treatment of mental health conditions.
The use of Hydroxyzine is associated with a few side effects, some of which affect the sexual function in men and women.
We discuss the side effects of Hydroxyzine sexually and what you can do to avoid or minimize them.
Side Effects of Hydroxyzine That Affect Sexual Function
Here is a list of Hydroxyzine’s side effects in men and women related to sexual health:
Low Sex Drive
One of the common sexual side effects associated with Hydroxyzine is the loss of libido. This side effect is reported in both males and females using this drug.
Some people notice a mild decrease in their sexual desire while taking Vistaril, although some people may experience a complete loss of libido.
It’s possible to minimize this side effect by following simple tricks to improve intimacy between couples, such as engaging in romantic conversations or reading or watching erotic/romantic content together.
Priapism
Priapism refers to a prolonged, rigid erection, often painful, in the absence of sexual stimulation or arousal. This is a rare yet serious Hydroxyzine side effect in men.
If you develop priapism while using Hydroxyzine, you must contact your doctor at the earliest or visit an emergency room.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction refers to the inability to have or maintain an erection.
Men using Hydroxyzine might experience erectile dysfunction that persists for longer. This side effect can be particularly impactful for men who are experiencing an inability to get or maintain an erection for the first time, causing additional stress and anxiety.
The exact cause of erectile dysfunction in men taking hydroxyzine is not clearly understood. However, it is believed to be the result of its sedative action on the brain.
Hydroxyzine can cause drowsiness, which interferes with the ability of men to feel aroused or stay focused during sexual intercourse.
Additionally, the medication may also decrease the blood flow to the genital area, making it more difficult for them to achieve an erection or orgasm.
Anorgasmia
Men and women taking Hydroxyzine may encounter difficulty in reaching an orgasm. In severe cases, they may not reach an orgasm. This is called anorgasmia.
This can be frustrating not only for the Hydroxyzine user but also for the partner. It can have a considerable impact on the sexual satisfaction and emotional well-being of the couple.
Painful Sex
Hydroxyzine can lower the lubrication in the vagina in women, due to which they may experience pain during sex.
Vaginal dryness caused due to the loss of natural lubrication can make sexual intercourse painful and uncomfortable for women, thus contributing to the further decline in their sexual desire.
Women who experience reduced lubrication and pain during sex can use natural lubricants such as coconut oil before and after sex.
They should also drink more water and fluid to stay well-hydrated. This can improve natural vaginal lubrication and help them avoid pain during sex.
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What are the General Side effects of Hydroxyzine?
In addition to sexual side effects, hydroxyzine may cause a few general adverse effects. It is important to be aware of these potential side effects when taking this medication.
Some common general side effects of hydroxyzine include:
Dryness of mouth
Dry mouth is a common general side effect of hydroxyzine. To relieve dry mouth, you can suck ice chips or chew gum. You should also increase your water and fluid intake to stay hydrated and avoid dry mouth.
Drowsiness and dizziness
Drowsiness and dizziness can occur due to the sedative effect of hydroxyzine on the nervous system.
If these side effects are severe or persist, inform your doctor promptly. In addition, avoid activities that need a high level of alertness to avoid accidents and injuries.
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common digestive side effects of hydroxyzine that typically occur during the initial few days of starting the medication. These side effects can be easily resolved by taking doses with food.
Blurring of vision
The blurring of vision is one of the potential serious side effects of hydroxyzine. It is usually coupled with dry eyes. These side effects are more severe in people who wear contact lenses.
Lubricating eye drops can help to relieve these side effects. However, if the symptoms persist or become worse, you must see your ophthalmologist (eye specialist).
How Long Do the Side Effects of Hydroxyzine Last?
The duration of side effects caused by hydroxyzine varies from one person to another.
In most cases, these side effects are temporary and resolve over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
However, there have been some rare cases where the side effects of hydroxyzine persisted throughout the duration of treatment.
In such cases, the side effects are likely to go away within a few days of stopping the medication.
If sexual and general side effects of hydroxyzine are a concern, you can talk to your healthcare provider.
Your doctor will help you explore potential solutions, such as lowering the dosage, changing the medication, and incorporating additional interventions to reduce or avoid them.
Sexual Side Effects of Hydroxyzine: Frequently Asked Questions
How does hydroxyzine make you feel?
This medicine may make you drowsy and dizzy. This effect could be attributed to the sedative properties of the medication.
If you experience dizziness or drowsiness while using hydroxyzine, you must avoid activities that require a high level of alertness, such as driving and working on machinery, to avoid potential accidents.
Does hydroxyzine cause weight gain?
No, hydroxyzine is not known to cause weight gain. No association between Hydroxyzine and weight gain was reported by participants who were administered this drug in clinical trials.
Conclusion
Hydroxyzine can cause sexual side effects such as erectile dysfunction in men, painful intercourse in women, and reduced libido and anorgasmia in both men and women.
Atarax can also cause general side effects such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, dry mouth, and blurring of vision. The duration and severity of these adverse effects vary from person to person.
If you experience these side effects, you can talk to your healthcare provider to know if changes in dosage or medication are needed to address them. It is essential to discuss your concerns with your physician, who can help you find potential solutions and make suitable adjustments to your treatment plan.
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