Haloperidol
Description
Generic Name: haloperidol
Drug Class: antipsychotic
Haldol Details
Haldol (haloperidol) is an oral prescription drug used to treat schizophrenia. It is used for the management of agitated behavior, hallucinations, and negative thoughts. It is also prescribed for patients with Tourette’s syndrome. It helps manage uncontrolled movements and outbursts of sounds and/or words.
Have Side Effects of Haldol (haloperidol)
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Dizziness
-Lightheadedness
-Spinning sensation
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Dry mouth
-Drowsiness
-Anxiety
-Sleep disturbances
-Difficulty urinating
-Diarrhea
Severe Side Effects:
-Muscle spasm
-Muscle stiffness
-Shaking or tremors
-Restlessness
-Drooling
-Mask-like facial expression
-Decreased in sexual ability
-Inability to produce sperm
-Enlarged breasts
-Priapism or prolonged erection
-Persistent nausea and vomiting
-Severe abdominal pain
-Seizures
-Fever
-Persistent sore throat
-Yellowish eyes and skin
-Tardive dyskinesia (facial/muscle twitching)
-Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
-Slow heartbeat
-Chest pain
-Severe dizziness
-Fainting
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Haldol.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue use and talk to your doctor or health care professional.
Haldol (haloperidol) Warnings
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to haloperidol or any Haldol (haloperidol) ingredients the tablet may contain. Always be watchful for any signs of serious allergic reactions, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. If this occurs, stop taking this Haldol medication and seek emergency medical help immediately.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of CNS depression, nervous system problems, Parkinson’s disease, hyperthyroidism, heart problems, low white blood cell count, glaucoma, genitourinary disorders, liver disease, seizures, and bipolar disorder. Additionally, due to possible drug interactions, you should discuss all the prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
This oral drug can cause QT prolongation, which could be considered a medical emergency. Symptoms are severe dizziness and fainting. You may prevent this by staying hydrated and avoiding water pills. You should also be monitored for low levels of potassium and magnesium in the blood, as they may also lead to QT prolongation.
Dizziness, drowsiness, and lightheadedness are among the side effects of this antipsychotic. You should practice safety caution when doing tasks that require alertness and clear vision, especially driving. Further, haloperidol and alcohol can interact and cause CNS depression. It can cause sedation and psychomotor impairments. Avoid drinking alcohol while on this treatment.
This antipsychotic can decrease sweating which could increase the risk of heatstroke. If the weather is humid/hot, you should avoid overheating by staying in a cool place, wearing light clothes, and staying hydrated.
Pregnant moms must avoid this oral drug as it is known to cause harm to unborn babies. For breastfeeding moms, this drug is known to pass into breast milk and may pose undesirable effects on breastfed babies. All risks should be discussed with the physician prior to taking this medication.
Haldol Dosage Forms
This is available in Haldol 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg tablets.
Haldol Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of this oral antipsychotic is not fully known yet. However, it is thought to work mainly by inhibiting the effects of dopamine and increasing its turnover. It has a strong antagonism on the dopamine receptor located in the mesolimbic and mesocortical systems of the brain. It alleviates symptoms of psychosis through the inhibition of the effects of dopamine. Antipsychotics are known to restore the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
How to Take Haldol
Before starting your Haldol treatment, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take Haldol or any medication unless you have understood the uses and directions. For further medical advice or additional details, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Haldol tablet is usually prescribed two to three times a day or as directed by the doctor and is only meant to be taken by mouth. You may take Haldol with or without a meal.
Make a dosing schedule. This type of drug works best if taken at the same time each day. Do not increase or decrease your Haldol (haloperidol) dosage, as it depends on your overall medical condition and response to the therapy. You should not also take Haldol (haloperidol) more frequently than advised. Further, never stop taking it abruptly because doing so can worsen the symptoms.
Common Questions About Haldol
What is Haldol (haloperidol) used for?
Haldol (haloperidol) is being used primarily for schizophrenic patients. It is used to manage acute and chronic psychosis. Also, this type of medication is being used to control the symptoms of Tourette’s syndrome.
Is Haldol a sleeping pill?
This antipsychotic medication can cause drowsiness and sleepiness, but it should not be used to treat sleeping problems. If you have any trouble sleeping, you must consult your physician regarding appropriate treatment options.
How quickly does Haldol work?
Usually, haloperidol starts to kick in within 30 minutes to an hour after it has been administered. Although it is absorbed quickly, it may take a few days to a few weeks before you notice improvements in the symptoms of psychiatric disorders.
Is Haldol good for anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are not among the indications of this prescription medication. However, it is also being used off-label to treat anxiety neuroses. This has been proven to be effective in managing specific symptoms of anxiety.
Where to buy Haldol (haloperidol)?
You can buy Haldol (haloperidol) from our online pharmacy. This oral product is a prescription drug, so you need to have a valid prescription even if you buy Haldol (haloperidol) online or from any local pharmacy. Do not use this medication unless prescribed.
What is The Price of Haldol?
Get the best deals when you order your prescription and non-prescription drugs from our online pharmacy. We provide the lowest prices on our medications including Haldol for our patients.
Check our list of Haloperidol prices at the top of this page.