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Drug interactions

Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Hydroxyzine

Severity: Major

Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates and Hydroxyzine: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Oxybates are potent CNS depressants and hydroxyzine adds sedation. Combined use may cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma or death.

What this interaction means in plain words

Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates and Hydroxyzine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive CNS depression through GABA-B/GHB receptor effects of oxybate and H1-antagonist sedation from hydroxyzine.

What to do

Avoid the combination where possible and use a non-sedating alternative to hydroxyzine. If required, use the lowest doses, and monitor closely for sedation and respiratory depression.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates with Hydroxyzine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates and Hydroxyzine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Oxybates are potent CNS depressants and hydroxyzine adds sedation. Combined use may cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma or death.

How serious is the interaction between Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates and Hydroxyzine?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination where possible and use a non-sedating alternative to hydroxyzine. If required, use the lowest doses, and monitor closely for sedation and respiratory depression.

What other medicines interact with Hydroxyzine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydroxyzine with, for example, Droperidol, Pimozide, Thioridazine. The full list is on the Hydroxyzine page.

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