Hydroxyzine is a medication that is commonly used for symptomatic relief of anxiety. It can also be used as an antihistamine to stop pruritus, the feeling of itching during an allergic reaction.
Why are alpha-gal patients commonly prescribed hydroxyzine?
Hydroxyzine can be prescribed for different reasons including anxiety symptoms and allergic reactions. In cases with patients who have Alpha-gal Syndrome, they can have an allergic reaction to any mammalian-derived products. If the prescriber is unaware of which medication options are animal-free, this medication will not improve their allergic reaction, but it can actually make it worse. This is why it is important for patients wanting animal-free products to check which options are available for them.
What is the difference between Hydroxyzine HCl and Hydroxyzine pamoate?
Hydroxyzine is available in two forms: hydroxyzine hydrochloride (HCl) and hydroxyzine pamoate. While both contain the same active ingredient, there are some important differences between them:
Feature | Hydroxyzine HCl | Hydroxyzine pamoate |
Chemical name | Hydroxyzine hydrochloride | Hydroxyzine pamoate |
Common Uses | Anxiety, nausea, allergies, pre-surgery sedation | Anxiety, tension, longer-lasting symptom control |
Forms available | Capsule, tablet, syrup, injection | Capsule |
Absorption | Absorbed more quickly, faster relief | Absorbed more slowly, longer-lasting effects |
Side effects | Drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, blurred vision | Drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, blurred vision |
Is hydroxyzine animal-free?
Although hydroxyzine is available in various forms, most formulations contain gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients. However, our team has identified TWO animal-free options: Hydroxyzine HCl syrup and Hydroxyzine HCl solution, manufactured by Chartwell. Unfortunately, none of the tablet or capsule formulations are animal-free, as they contain ingredients like lactose, gelatin, and shellac.
Conclusion
Hydroxyzine is a crucial medication for managing anxiety and preventing itching during allergic reactions. However, for patients with Alpha-gal Syndrome or those seeking animal-free products, it's vital to choose the right formulation. While most hydroxyzine options contain animal-derived ingredients, VeganMed is dedicated to helping you find the most suitable, animal-free alternatives. Although Chartwell’s Hydroxyzine HCl syrup and solution are verified as animal-free, partnering with VeganMed can enhance transparency and accuracy in labeling. This collaboration ensures clear, reliable information about animal-free medication options, empowering consumers to make informed choices.
Do you think Chartwell should partner with VeganMed to improve transparency? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Co-authored by: Samantha Gorski
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on VeganMed is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
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