Different class, different withdrawal frame
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be medically serious and requires supervised tapering. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine; the pharmacology and regulatory warnings differ. That difference does not mean stop carelessly.
Rebound versus withdrawal
If anxiety or itching returns when you stop, it may be the original problem reappearing rather than a mysterious withdrawal syndrome. A prescriber can help distinguish that and plan next steps.
Whether tapering is needed
There is no benzodiazepine-style boxed warning mandating taper for hydroxyzine. Long duration and high daily use still merit a prescriber conversation about whether to stop gradually for comfort and symptom control, especially when treating chronic itch or ongoing anxiety.
Non-drug support when stopping
NIMH materials describe psychotherapy and other supports for anxiety disorders. If medicine was bridging a gap, stopping may require another plan for the underlying condition — not just cessation.
Switching from benzodiazepines
Never swap a benzodiazepine for hydroxyzine on your own. Benzodiazepine discontinuation requires supervised tapering per boxed warnings. Hydroxyzine is not a drop-in substitute; any transition is a prescriber-planned process.