From the FDA Drug Label
For symptomatic relief of anxiety and tension associated with psychoneurosis and as an adjunct in organic disease states in which anxiety is manifested: adults, 50 to 100 mg q.i.d. ; children under 6 years, 50 mg daily in divided doses; children over 6 years, 50 to 100 mg daily in divided doses. The recommended dose of hydroxyzine for anxiety is:
- 50 to 100 mg every 4 hours (q.i.d.) for adults 1
- 50 mg daily in divided doses for children under 6 years 1
- 50 to 100 mg daily in divided doses for children over 6 years 1
From the Research
Hydroxyzine is typically prescribed for anxiety at doses of 25-50 mg taken 3-4 times daily for adults, with a maximum daily dose of 400 mg, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 2. The medication begins working within 15-30 minutes after taking it and can provide relief for 4-6 hours. Hydroxyzine works by blocking histamine receptors and has sedative properties that help reduce anxiety symptoms. Some key points to consider when prescribing hydroxyzine for anxiety include:
- For elderly patients, lower doses are recommended, usually starting at 10-25 mg 3-4 times daily.
- Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness, which is why it's best to avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
- Unlike benzodiazepines, hydroxyzine is not habit-forming, making it a safer option for some patients.
- Always take hydroxyzine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, as individual needs may vary based on your specific condition and medical history. It's also important to note that while hydroxyzine can be effective for short-term anxiety management, it may not be suitable for long-term use due to the potential for side effects and the availability of other treatment options, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms 3, 4.