Does Hydroxyzine pamoate cause weight loss?

In this short article, we will discuss whether Hydroxyzine pamoate causes weight loss, as well as what steps to take if you suspect that this medication is affecting your weight. Additionally, we have explored some adverse effects and overdose symptoms associated with this medication.

Hydroxyzine pamoate does not commonly cause weight loss (1,2). On the contrary, a study indicated the occurrence of weight gain with the use of this medication (3).

Just like any other medication, there are potential side effects associated with Hydroxyzine pamoate. Additionally, this medication can cause an overdose. 

If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking this medication, it is advisable to contact your doctor (1,2).

Does Hydroxyzine pamoate cause weight loss?

Hydroxyzine pamoate does not commonly cause weight loss. It is not listed as one of the side effects of this medication (1,2). 

In fact, this antihistamine can make some people gain weight and it is the only weight-related side effect reported in clinical trials (3). 

What to do if you suspect that Hydroxyzine pamoate is causing weight loss?

If you experience weight changes during Hydroxyzine treatment and it affects your quality of life, talk to your doctor.

They will likely investigate the cause of your issue, and if it is indeed associated with the use of the medication, they may consider adjusting the treatment or replacing Hydroxyzine with another more suitable medication.

What are the commonly expected side effects of Hydroxyzine pamoate?

Hydroxyzine pamoate may not cause weight loss, but it is associated with some other side effects,which are generally mild and transient in nature. These include (2):

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Weight gain
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Seizures
  • Rash or itching
  • Pus-filled, blister-like sores (lesions), areas of swelling and redness on the skin, and fever

Hydroxyzine can cause other side effects. Talk to your doctor if you experience any unusual or persistent problems while taking this medication. 

  • Furthermore, If you experience any symptoms of a serious skin condition, stop taking hydroxyzine immediately.

Does Hydroxyzine pamoate cause overdose?

Hydroxyzine pamoate can cause an overdose, which could lead to life-threatening consequences in some people. 

The most common manifestation of overdosage is hypersedation. Other reported signs and symptoms were convulsions, stupor, nausea and vomiting, hypotension, depressant effects on the central nervous system and cardiac complications. There is no specific antidote for Hydroxyzine pamoate (1).

This is why it’s important to make sure that you take this medication only when needed.Conclusion

In this short article, we have discussed whether Hydroxyzine pamoate causes weight loss, as well as what steps to take if you suspect that this medication is affecting your weight. Additionally, we have explored some adverse effects and overdose symptoms associated with this medication

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References

1.-

VISTARIL® (hydroxyzine pamoate).  U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Reference ID: 4010760 [Internet] [updated 2016 Nov; cited 2023 Jul 20]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/011459s051_011795s028lbl.pdf.

2.-

MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US);2023. Hydroxyzine; [updated 2022 Feb 15; cited 2023 Jul 20]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682866.html.

3.-

Ferreri M, Hantouche EG, Billardon M. Intérêt de l’hydroxyzine dans le trouble anxiété généralisée: étude contrôlée en double aveugle versus placebo [Value of hydroxyzine in generalized anxiety disorder: controlled double-blind study versus placebo]. Encephale. 1994;20(6):785-91.