Hydroxyzine Dosing for a 12-Year-Old Child
For a 12-year-old child, the recommended dose of hydroxyzine is 50-100 mg daily in divided doses. 1
Dosing Guidelines by Indication
Anxiety and Tension
- For children over 6 years (including 12-year-olds): 50-100 mg daily in divided doses 1
- This can be administered in 2-4 divided doses throughout the day depending on the severity of symptoms 1
Pruritus (Itching) from Allergic Conditions
- For children over 6 years (including 12-year-olds): 50-100 mg daily in divided doses 1
- Typically administered as 25 mg three to four times daily 1
- Lower doses (0.7 mg/kg three times daily) have been shown to be effective for pruritus in atopic dermatitis while causing less sedation than higher doses 2
Premedication for Procedures/Sedation
- For sedation when used as a premedication: 0.6 mg/kg of body weight 1
- For a typical 12-year-old weighing approximately 40-45 kg, this would equate to about 24-27 mg per dose 1
Administration Considerations
- Hydroxyzine can be administered orally 1
- Dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's response to therapy 1
- Common side effects include sedation, which may affect school performance 2
- Lower doses may be preferred initially to minimize sedation, especially during daytime hours 2
Important Monitoring and Precautions
- Monitor for excessive sedation, especially when initiating therapy 2
- Be aware that hydroxyzine may cause drowsiness that could interfere with daily activities 3
- The elimination half-life increases with age, which may affect dosing requirements in adolescents 2
- Consider timing of doses to minimize impact on school performance (e.g., larger portion of daily dose at bedtime) 2
Practical Dosing Algorithm
- Start with the lower end of the recommended range (50 mg daily divided)
- For anxiety or allergic conditions: Begin with 12.5-25 mg 2-3 times daily 1
- Assess response and side effects after 3-5 days
- If needed and tolerated, increase to the higher end of the range (up to 100 mg daily divided) 1
- Adjust timing of doses to minimize daytime sedation if needed
Remember that hydroxyzine's sedative effects may be more pronounced initially but often diminish with continued use 4.