Hydroxyzine hydrochloride (HCl) and diphenhydramine are both first-generation antihistamines, meaning they can cause drowsiness and are used to treat allergy symptoms. However, hydroxyzine HCl is available by prescription and is also commonly used to treat anxiety. Diphenhydramine is available over the counter and is typically used for short-term allergy relief, cold symptoms, or sleep support.

Although they work in similar ways, they are not the same medication and are not always interchangeable. A healthcare provider can help determine which option is appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.

You should not take hydroxyzine hydrochloride (HCl) if you are allergic to hydroxyzine HCl or any of its ingredients. Avoid hydroxyzine HCl if you’ve had a severe reaction to antihistamines such as cetirizine (generic for Zyrtec) or levocetirizine (generic for Xyzal), common treatments for seasonal allergies. Hydroxyzine HCl may also be unsafe if you have a history of abnormal heart rhythms, especially long QT syndrome.

Hydroxyzine HCl is generally avoided in early pregnancy due to potential risks. Talk to your provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before starting hydroxyzine HCl medication.

Always talk with your healthcare provider about your full medical history and current medications before starting hydroxyzine to make sure you avoid possible drug interactions.

Hydroxyzine hydrochloride (HCl) is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription or refill an existing one during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacist near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not hydroxyzine HCl is right for you.

Hydroxyzine hydrochloride (HCl) can be obtained with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Once prescribed, it can be filled at most local retail pharmacies.

With Sesame, you can schedule a virtual or in-person visit with a licensed provider who will review your symptoms and medical history to determine whether hydroxyzine HCl is appropriate for you. If approved, your prescription can be sent to a pharmacy of your choice, often for same-day pickup.

All prescriptions are provided at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that a prescription will be issued following an appointment. Providers on Sesame do not prescribe controlled substances.

Several prescription medications are available to help manage anxiety and depression, each working in slightly different ways.

Common options include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as escitalopram (generic for Lexapro), sertraline (generic for Zoloft), fluoxetine (generic for Prozac), citalopram (generic for Celexa), and paroxetine (generic for Paxil). These medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain to help improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Other options include serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine ER (generic for Effexor XR) and duloxetine DR (generic for Cymbalta), which affect both serotonin and norepinephrine to support mood regulation. For anxiety specifically, buspirone (generic for Buspar) is often prescribed as an alternative to SSRIs and SNRIs.

Some medications with sedative or calming effects, like hydroxyzine HCl and doxepin (generic for Silenor), may also be used to help manage anxiety, tension, or sleep difficulties related to mood disorders. Your healthcare provider can help determine which medication or combinationis safest and most effective based on your individual needs and medical history.