Flare with Atarax? - Interstitial Cystitis Network Support Forum

diamante67 · 03-25-2004, 08:31 AM

Hi everybody,
I have recently started taking Atarax. twice a day just 10 mg. Well, it seems that since I started taking it my flares actually became more frequent. I might have some relief for a couple of hours, but after that I would actually feel worse. This morning I just did not want to go to work for how bad it had become.
Did anyone experience a flare because of Atarax? I have been very "religious" about my diet and things just seem to get worse by the day. Today I stopped taking it and kept drinking lots of water to see if thigs start getting better...

Reba in Arkansas · 03-25-2004, 09:45 AM

Hey.

That's unusual. Atarax or hydroxyzine HCL is in a category with antihistimines. It's used to treat allergic symtoms and relieves anxiety, tension and motion sickness. It has a sedating or relaxing effect. I take 50mg at night, or else I wouldn't be able to stand during the day.

It has really helped me, but if it seems to bother you, call your doctor. It seems like as far as I'm concerned, it makes my flares more short-lived and not as painful. Of course like I said if it's necessary for me to take it during the day, I might as well grab a pillow and hit the couch and DON'T DRIVE. It makes me very sleepy. That's why I don't understand it making you flare. It should relax your bladder. Anyway I hope you feel better.
-Reba

Iris · 03-25-2004, 11:50 AM

Hi, I could not take Atarax, it made me worse and also so wired, I could not sleep. I was changed over to Effexor XR, Elavil and Ambien. That has helped me a lot. I do not know for sure, but I think I am one of the few who could not take Elimiron and Atarax, it made my flares worse. I know I have strong reactions to different drugs, so I have to be very careful with what meds I am given.Let us know how you are doing, hugs Iris.

diamante67 · 03-25-2004, 12:08 PM

I am goingto try and go for few days without Atarax. Today I also eliminated vegetables completely from my meal, to see if I can bring the flare level down. For the moment I seem to feel better.
I know that Atarax helps a lot of people, so I am not sure if this is the culprit. It is interesting to read that Iris had trouble with it, though, so my suspicions might be right, after all...

Thanks again for your input, and for checking on me! :-)