What are the side effects of vistaril.I am taking it for insomnia and it is helping my pain
Answers (2)
almonjoy; Vistaril is used to calm the central nervous system. This is going to make you feel more relaxed and make you drowsy. It is probably helping your pain because you are more relaxed. As your body gets used to the medication the side affects will become less and less. Good Luck
Vistaril (generic name "hydroxyzine") is a strong antihistamine, and is also prescribed for severe allergic reactions, hives, in some cases combined with anesthesias, anxiety, etc. Typical side effects for most antihistamines are (of course) drowsiness, clumsiness and sleepiness. This is why it works to help you sleep. That is why it also makes you clumsy: it relaxes your muscles, so don't take it and try to drive or walk around in unfamiliar places.
Another side effect of antihistamines is dry mouth and mucous membranes. Of course, that's what it's job is, is to dry up reactions to allergens (runny noses and eyes if the pollen is high, for example) but if you take if for insomnia, you may have an aggravating dry mouth when you wake up, and your nose may be dry as well. If these are bothersome, suck on sugarfree candies or ice chips during the day and sleep with a humidifier. That should help you.
If you feel daytime drowsiness or "cloudiness" see your doctor. Your dose may be too high. Your side effects should get better over time.
