hYDROXYZINE FOR Restlessness/Anxiety

Caring62

Mom is in the later stages of ALZ and is now a high fall risk.  She is in a SNF for OT/PT to build her strength and then will move to either an adult family home or more Acute level of Memory care.

She is extremely restless at times and is able to get out of bed but falls shortly afterwards.  The SNF medical staff has begun using Hydroxyzine to reduce her restless.  

She is on Palliative care now.  

Has Hydroxyzine worked well for anyone?

Thanks

LaurenB

I found this information on drugs.com…

 Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of itching, or hives on the skin. Hydroxyzine may be used to treat allergic skin reactions such as hives or contact dermatitis.

Since hydroxyzine also reduces activity in the central nervous system, it can be used as a sedative to treat anxiety and tension. 

Marta

Hydroxyzine can INcrease fall risk due to its sedative properties.

easy23

My PWD takes it for anxiety. I really don't think it does anything.

M1

Caring id ask for something else. It's in an older class of antihistamines that are not recommended for the elderly and those with dementia-high risk of sedation, falls, constipation and urinary retention. There are likely better alternatives.