hydroxyzine (Vistaril)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an anti-anxiety medication like hydroxyzine (Vistaril) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find a provider who meets your needs

    Browse our providers online or call our scheduling team for matching assistance — find a provider who accepts your insurance and meets your needs, whether that’s a clinical specialty or a shared life experience. Choose a date and time that works for you and how you’d prefer to pay (using insurance or self-pay).

  • 2

    Meet 1:1 to begin treatment

    Meet online with your provider to begin treatment. At your first session, share any symptoms or struggles you’re experiencing along with your goals. Together, you and your provider will discuss if medication may be a good next step. Your provider may write you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Attend sessions and start feeling better

    Once your treatment plan is created, your provider will regularly check in and encourage feedback to ensure any medication you may be prescribed is effective for you.

FAQs

What is hydroxyzine (Vistaril) used for?

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine medication used to treat anxiety, itching from certain skin conditions or allergies, and for sedation before or after anesthesia for surgery. It may also be used off-label to treat panic attacks or as a sleep aid.

Is hydroxyzine (Vistaril) a controlled substance?

No—Hydroxyzine is not a controlled substance and is not known to be habit forming.

How long does hydroxyzine (Vistaril) last?

Hydroxyzine starts to work soon after you take a dose (typically within one hour) and may be prescribed two to four times per day to treat anxiety and itching. The effects of hydroxyzine typically last up to six hours. If you have questions about your dosage and how long hydroxyzine will last, talk with your provider to learn more.

Is hydroxyzine (Vistaril) addictive?

No. Hydroxyzine is not known to be addictive. While it can cause feelings of relaxation or drowsiness, it doesn't cause euphoria or “high”. If you have questions about hydroxyzine's effects, talk with your provider. They can provide more information about how this medication works in the body.

Does hydroxyzine (Vistaril) make you sleepy?

Yes. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine, and sleepiness or drowsiness is a common side effect. Until you become used to the effects of hydroxyzine, don't drive or operate machinery.

Does hydroxyzine (Vistaril) cause weight gain or loss?

Weight gain or weight loss weren't reported in studies of people taking hydroxyzine. If you have questions about possible weight gain or weight loss with hydroxyzine treatment, talk with your provider.

How long does hydroxyzine (Vistaril) stay in your system?

Hydroxyzine's half life (how long it takes for half the medication to leave your body) is around 14 hours. It may take up to 70 hours or longer for it to fully leave your system.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet online with a licensed provider at Thriveworks — if it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe you medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition. Your Thriveworks provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for online prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for our online psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication prescribed to you by your Thriveworks provider, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your medical and prescription coverage information.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule an online appointment with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After meeting with you and discussing your symptoms and treatment plan, your provider may recommend a prescription medication and/or additional services to help you reach your goals.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published October 3, 2024

We offer psychiatry in these select states

Our psychiatry services are done completely online, so you can schedule with any psychiatric provider in your state.

Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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