Pregnant women: In animal experiments, high doses of hydroxyzine caused fetal disturbances. Avoid if possible!

Nursing mothers: Little documentation. Excretion through milk in animal experiments. Better avoided.

Children: It is better to avoid sedative antihistamines in children younger than one year. Single dose for the age between 1 and 10: 0.6 mg/kg. Older children: adult dose

Elderly people: Plasma half-life of hydroxyzine (and cetirizine) is longer in the elderly than in younger people: cautious dosage and expect a prolonged effect.

Renal failure: The active metabolite cetirizine is partially eliminated renally. A dose reduction is indicated.

Liver insufficiency: When liver functions are reduced one can expect higher plasma levels. Reduce the dose!

Table of Contents | Indications | Pharmacology | Adverse Reactions & Interactions | Contraindications & Cautions | References