Single Center Experience with Hydroxyzine in the Treatment of Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome

Background To this date, there has been no specific therapy proven to be effective for cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) in controlled trials. Multiple regimens have been proposed including: cyproheptadine, propranolol, amitriptyline, and phenobarbital. These medications are not without major side effects. The aim of this study was to describe the authors’ experience with hydroxyzine in children with CVS. Materials and Methods This was a systematic retrospective review of charts from March 1st 2012 till December 31st 2014. Patients diagnosed with CVS and treated with hydroxyzine were included in this study. Demographic criteria as well as response to therapy were reviewed. Results 48 patients were diagnosed with CVS during the period of two years and nine months. Female to male ratio was 2:1. The average age at diagnosis was 10.4 years. Fifteen patients were treated with hydroxyzine. Overall success rate was 86.7%. The rates of complete and partial remission were respectively 61.5% and 38.4%. Only 2 patients failed to respond. Conclusion Hydroxyzine seems to be a safe and effective alternative prophylactic treatment in children with CVS. Further randomized controlled studies are needed to support this specific indication for prescribing hydroxyzine.