Atarax and Epoetin alfa Injection

• Generic Name: hydroxyzine
• Dosage Forms: Tablets and Syrup
• Other Brand Names: Atarax, ANX, Vistaril, Vistaril IM, Hyzine, Vistaject-50, Rezine

Atarax (hydroxyzine) reduces activity in the central nervous system. It also acts as an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing and runny nose, or hives on the skin.

Atarax is used as a sedative to treat anxiety and tension. It is also used together with other medications given for anesthesia.

Atarax is also used to treat allergic skin reactions such as hives or contact dermatitis.

Atarax may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: epoetin alfa
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Epogen, Procrit, Retacrit

Epoetin injection is a man-made version of human erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is produced naturally in the body, mostly by the kidneys. It stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. If the body does not produce enough EPO, severe anemia can occur. This often occurs in patients with chronic kidney disease whose kidneys are not working properly. Epoetin is used to treat severe anemia in patients on kidney dialysis or for those not on dialysis.

Epoetin may also be used to prevent or treat anemia that is caused by surgery or medicines (eg, zidovudine) that are used for other conditions, such as HIV or cancer.

Epoetin alfa is available only with your doctor's prescription.