Does hydroxyzine have almost the same effect of a benzo?

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with anxiolytic properties, but it is not a benzodiazepine. While both can be used to alleviate anxiety, hydroxyzine works differently in the brain and may have a milder effect compared to benzodiazepines, which are typically more potent and can also lead to dependence. Hydroxyzine is often used for short-term anxiety relief and does not carry the same risk of addiction.