What Is It?: is an antihistamine drug used to treat animals suffering from itching and inflammation usually caused by skin disease. Atopic dermatitis is a condition for which this drug is commonly prescribed.

How To Use: Hydroxyzine is usually given orally twice to three times daily in dogs, cats, horses and birds. It may be given with or without food.

Possible Side Effects: Because of its effect of relaxing some types of muscle, hydroxyzine should not be used in animals with enlarged prostates, bladder blockage, severe heart disease or stomach obstruction.  Hydroxyzine has also caused birth defects in laboratory animals and should probably not be used in pregnancy. It is not known if hydroxyzine gets into milk and should be used very carefully in nursing mothers.

Warning:  Hydroxyzine can cause sedation. It should be used with extreme caution in working animals such as horses and dogs. Hydroxyzine has caused seizures in some dogs and probably should not be used in dogs with a history of seizures.

Storage: Keep in the original container. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Capsules and tablets may be stored at room temperature. Some liquids should be stored in the refrigerator (see the prescription label.)  Store all medicines away from excess heat and moisture. Do NOT store in the bathroom.

If you miss a dose of this medication you should give it as soon as you remember it, but if it is within a few hours of the regularly scheduled dose, wait and give it at the regular time. Do not double a dose as this can be toxic to your pet.

Please do not skip doses or stop giving the medication. If you have difficulty giving doses consult your veterinarian or pharmacist who can offer administration techniques or change the dosage form to one that may be more acceptable to you and your animal.