Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Hydroxyzine as follows:
- Do not take Hydroxyzine, if you ever manifested any allergic response to intake of Hydroxyzine. Discuss your history of allergic response to this medication with your physician, without fail. Also, observe caution with using hydroxyzine, if you ever manifested any allergic response to intake of cetirizine, as it is a product of hydroxyzine metabolism.
- In the event of any current manifestations of any allergic response with this medication, report it to your physician or other health care personnel immediately, to check regarding your safety with continuing on intake of this medication.
- Hydroxyzine is significantly metabolized in the liver to some active and inactive metabolites. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of hydroxyzine could be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, in individuals with history of compromised liver function, hydroxyzine must be used with caution and possible dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for liver functions and development of any toxicity symptoms with the medication.
- Active metabolites of hydroxyzine, such as, cetirizine and other inactive metabolites are mainly excreted in the urine and feces. Individuals with compromised renal function cannot excrete these compounds normally, which allows them to stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. If hydroxyzine is prescribed especially for long-term use, in individuals with compromised renal function, caution must be exercised with possible dose reductions, periodical monitoring for renal functions, and close watch for development of any dangerous side-effects and toxicity symptoms with the medication.
