can you take lexapro and hydroxyzine together

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13-10-2024

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Can You Take Lexapro and Hydroxyzine Together? A Guide to Safe Medication Combinations

Taking multiple medications can be tricky, and it's crucial to understand the potential interactions and risks involved. This is especially true when dealing with psychiatric medications like Lexapro (escitalopram), an SSRI antidepressant, and Hydroxyzine, an antihistamine often used for anxiety.

Understanding the Medications:

• Lexapro (escitalopram): This selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions. It's primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
• Hydroxyzine: This antihistamine blocks histamine receptors in the body, reducing allergic reactions and inflammation. It's also used to treat anxiety, as it has calming effects on the central nervous system.

Can You Take Them Together?

In short, yes, taking Lexapro and Hydroxyzine together is generally considered safe, but it's important to discuss this with your doctor.

Here's why:

• Limited Interaction: Research indicates that taking Lexapro and Hydroxyzine together doesn't cause significant interactions that negatively impact the effectiveness or safety of either medication. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology [1] found that Hydroxyzine did not alter the pharmacokinetic profile of escitalopram (Lexapro). This means the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of Lexapro remained unchanged even when Hydroxyzine was co-administered.
• Potential Benefits: Combining these medications can be beneficial for individuals experiencing both anxiety and depression. Lexapro addresses the underlying mood disorder, while Hydroxyzine provides quick relief from acute anxiety symptoms.

Important Considerations:

• Doctor's Approval: Always consult with your doctor before taking any medication combination. They can assess your individual health history, current medications, and potential risks to determine the best course of action.
• Drowsiness: Hydroxyzine can cause drowsiness, which may be intensified when combined with Lexapro. It's important to be aware of this and avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medications affect you.
• Dosage Adjustment: Your doctor might adjust the dosages of either medication to ensure the most effective and safe treatment.
• Monitoring for Side Effects: Keep a close eye on any side effects you experience while taking these medications. Common side effects of Lexapro include nausea, headache, and insomnia. Common side effects of Hydroxyzine include dizziness, dry mouth, and blurred vision. Report any unusual or concerning side effects to your doctor promptly.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping either medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.

In Conclusion:

Taking Lexapro and Hydroxyzine together can be a safe and effective treatment option for individuals with both anxiety and depression, provided they are prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. However, it's crucial to discuss this combination with your doctor to ensure it's the right choice for you and to minimize potential risks.

References:

[1] "Hydroxyzine does not alter the pharmacokinetic profile of escitalopram" by S. M. Z. Akhtar, et al. Published in Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 2014.