Day by day, people suffer from various disorders. Among them, anxiety is the most common mental disorder that can affect an individual. According to multiple studies, over 30% of adults in the USA suffer from this illness. This fact highlights the need for reliable treatments. Medications such as Ativan and Hydroxyzine often come to mind when the discussion arises for treating anxiety, insomnia, and nausea. But one question also stands out: which is more efficient? Figuring out the right one for anxiety is a complex matter. Today, this article will cover the comparison of Ativan vs Hydroxyzine, their features, and effectiveness. After reading this article mindfully, one will make their choice that fits their needs.
Overview of Ativan and Hydroxyzine
Ativan is a branded drug, also known as Lorazepam, which belongs to the benzodiazepine class. Primarily, it is prescribed to help manage anxiety disorders. This drug is also helpful for treating seizures, vomiting, nausea, and alcohol withdrawal. It has a high potential for misuse, addiction, as Ativan is a Schedule IV controlled substance.
Hydroxyzine is a prescription antihistamine, mainly used to treat anxiety and tension associated with stress. It is sold under the brand name known as Vistaril and is safe for short-term use in patients needing symptomatic relief from anxiety, and has not been assessed for long-term use.
Differences Between Ativan vs Hydroxyzine
Exploring the key differences can help you determine which medication is better for your specific needs to treat anxiety.
Difference in Mechanism
Ativan comes under the benzodiazepine drug class and primarily targets the GABA-A receptor inhibitors. GABA reduces the activity of the nerve cells in the brain by binding to its receptors. By doing so, it increases chloride ion flow into neurons by calming the brain, reduces anxiety, and relaxes muscles. However, Hydroxyzine belongs to the Antihistamine drug class, which works by blocking H1 receptors in the brain. After that, it suppresses histamine, promoting sedation, leading to less anxiety, and has a calming effect. Also, this drug may block serotonin 5-HT2A receptors to contribute to anti-anxiety action.
Primary Use
Ativan or Lorazepam is familiar for helping manage severe anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and seizures. In Contrast, Hydroxyzine is specifically for treating mild to moderate anxiety, allergies, itching, and nausea.
Onset of Action
Ativan acts faster compared to Hydroxyzine by providing noticeable anxiety relief within 15-30 minutes, to appropriate for acute anxiety. Its peak effective time is 1-2 hours and lasts up to 6-8 hours. On the other hand, Hydroxyzine has a slower onset of action, taking up to 30-60 minutes. It is fully effective in 2 hours, and the duration of action is 4-6 hours.
Are Ativan and Hydroxyzine The Same?
Although Lorazepam and Hydroxyzine come from different drug classes, some characteristics make them quite similar to each other. But it saves in mind that they are not the same. The similarities of both medications are briefly discussed below.
- Both are commonly prescribed for anxiety treatment and may also be used for insomnia, panic attacks, situational anxiety, or pre-surgical anxiety.
- Both Hydroxyzine and Ativan cause sedation and drowsiness that may help with anxiety, preoperating calming.
- Each drug requires a doctor’s prescription; neither is available over the counter. They both are prescribed as first-line therapies, while SSRIs are not suitable.
- Both drugs may produce calming effects. By doing so, sometimes they are used to help with insomnia, especially when related to anxiety.
Can I Take Ativan and Hydroxyzine Together?
Although Ativan vs Hydroxyzine belong to different classes of the family, they show quite similar characteristics. But it is not recommended to take both together. It is only possible to combine while you are taking one of the pills and switching to another. But it should be done by visiting with a skilled health expert; otherwise, it may cause different health risks. It is remembered that while switching from one to another, the time gap and dose adjusting should be properly maintained. There are some risks associated with using Hydroxyzine and Lorazepam together without a doctor’s prescription. Such as:
- Due to sedative properties, both can lead to excessive drowsiness when taken together.
- The high doses of either medication may enhance severe respiratory depression in older adults.
- While taking both medications together, they both depress the central nervous system and may worsen attention and memory.
Side Effects of Ativan vs Hydroxyzine
Both drugs are clinically proven for the safe treatment of anxiety and other related conditions. But misuse or overdose may lead to some side effects, which are some mild, or other causes severe conditions that are not well-controlled. Understanding the following side effects will help you control the situation without agitation.
Mild Side Effects of Ativan and Hydroxyzine
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Blurred Vision
- Muscle Weakness
- Headache
- Dry Mouth
Serious Side Effects of Ativan and Hydroxyzine
- Respiratory Depression
- Confusion
- Mood Changes
- Difficulty Urinating
- Memory Issue
Precautions For Both Medications
Before using Ativan and Hydroxyzine medication, you should know about the precautions to avoid the high risk. Follow-up on the tips is discussed below.
- First, debate with a primary care provider if you have a medical history like heart-related disease, kidney disease, and brain disorder.
- During pregnancy or breastfeeding, never take these drugs without consulting a physician; otherwise, they can affect the fetus.
- People who have central nervous system depressants should not use the medications, as they lead to severe drowsiness.
- Don’t drive or use any machinery after using either of the drugs, as a result, you may experience more dizziness.
- Swallow the entire tablet of this drug at once; never break, dissolve, crush, or chew it.
- Never take an overdose or miss a dose. It is advised not to take alcohol while using these medications.
Final Thought
In the debate, we have seen the uses, side effects, and differences by comparing both anti-anxiety medications. We hope this article will help you choose the best suite for your needs, having seen your strengths or weaknesses. It is necessary to consult a skilled health expert before making any changes to your medications. For further information, visit mayomeds.com today. Your safety should always come first. Thank you!