Morning Headaches After Hydroxyzine Use
User: 31-year-old female from the United States, weighing 107 pounds, currently on a regimen that includes 5mg of Lexapro and hydroxyzine taken in the evening. I've recently observed that after taking 25mg of hydroxyzine, I wake up with an intense headache reminiscent of a hangover. Could my late-night dosage of hydroxyzine be the culprit behind these morning headaches?
Answers (1)

7/23/2025, 1:10:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's possible that your late-night dosage of hydroxyzine could be contributing to your morning headaches. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine commonly used for anxiety and as a sleep aid, but it can cause sedation and may also lead to side effects like headaches in some individuals, especially if used regularly.
Explanation:
When taken at night, hydroxyzine can cause drowsiness, but in some cases, it can also lead to rebound effects the next morning, similar to how a hangover feels. This might happen if your body reacts strongly to the sedative effects or if dehydration occurs overnight as a side effect.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Hydration: Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day and right before bed to help minimize dehydration, which can exacerbate headaches.
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Sleep Quality: Assess your overall sleep hygiene. Ensure you’re getting a restorative night's sleep by managing your sleep environment, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and limiting screen time before bed.
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Adjust Hydroxyzine Timing: Consider taking hydroxyzine earlier in the evening or discussing a potential adjustment to your dosage. Monitor if changing the timing affects the headaches.
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Track Symptoms: Keep a log of when you take hydroxyzine and the severity of your headaches each morning. This can help identify patterns and provide insight into the relationship between the medication and your symptoms.
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Consult a Professional: While I can't suggest seeing a healthcare provider, if the headaches persist despite these adjustments, it may be beneficial to talk to a professional about possible alternatives to hydroxyzine or adjustments to your regimen.
Let me know if you need more specific details on any of these steps!
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