APA Dictionary of Psychology

n. a sedating antihistamine of the diphenylmethane class. It is used for the relief of pre- and postoperative pain, obstetric pain, anxiety, dermatitis, and vomiting. Although also appropriate for the management of alcohol withdrawal, it is rarely used for this purpose in modern clinical practice. Hydroxyzine has significant anticholinergic effects. U.S. trade names: Atarax; Vistaril.