Anxiolytic effect of hydroxyzine: A double-blind trial versus placebo and buspirone

Benzodiazepines have major drawbacks including lessening of anxiolytic effe ct in long-term use, impairment of psychological functioning, problems on d iscontinuation, and addiction potential. Alternatives have been sought incl uding the antihistamines such as hydroxyzine. Two studies are described, on e comparing hydroxyzine 50 mg/day with placebo in GAD patients. Significant advantage were found for the active drug. The second GAD evaluation compar ed hydroxyzine 50 mg/day, buspirone 20 mg/day, and placebo. Hydroxyzine was significantly superior to placebo with buspirone intermediate. Adverse eff ects were minor and transient. It is concluded that hydroxyzine may prove a useful and safer alternative to the benzodiazepines. Copyright (C) 1999 Jo hn Wiley & Sons, Ltd.