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Haldol - Uses & Side Effects

Generic name: Haloperidol

Haloperidol is often used to treat schizophrenia. It is a strong tranquilizer and antipsychotic drug, a type of drug also known as a neuroleptic or major tranquilizer.

Haldol Dosage

• The usual dosage is 1 to 6 milligrams daily. This amount should be divided into 2 or 3 smaller doses.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

Uses of Haldol

• Haloperidol is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders
• Haloperidol is used to control tics and outbursts in patients with Tourette’s syndrome.
• Haloperidol is used to treat mood swings, hyperactivity, aggressive behavior, and improve attention span in children with sever conduct disorders.
• Haloperidol is used to treat psychosis associated with dementia, depressions, or mania.
• Haloperidol is used to treat acute psychosis

Side Effects of Haldol

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any side effects develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Haldol.Side effects may include:

• Breast development in men, breathing problems, cataracts, constipation, drowsiness, dry mouth, insomnia, involuntary muscle contractions, skin reactions, tardive dyskinesia (see "Most important fact about Haldol"), tightening of the throat muscles, weight loss.

Warnings and precautions before taking Haldol:

• Haloperidol should only be used in children and adolescents under 18 who are under the care of a child psychiatrist.
• Haloperidol may cause dizziness and/or drowsiness. Patients taking it should not drive or operate heavy machinery until the full effects on alertness are known.
• his drug may impair your ability to drive a car or operate potentially dangerous machinery. Do not participate in any activities that require full alertness if you are unsure of your reaction to Haldol.
• Haldol may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. When spending time in the sun, use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor . Your doctor may want you to reduce gradually the amount you are taking before stopping completely. This will allow your body time to adjust and help avoid a worsening of your medical condition.
• This medication should not be given to a patient who is unconscious.

Drug Interaction :- If Haldol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Haldol with the following:

• Antiseizure drugs such as Dilantin or Tegretol
  
• Antispasmodic drugs such as Bentyl and Cogentin
  
• Blood-thinning medications such as Coumadin
  
• Certain antidepressants, including Elavil, Tofranil, and Prozac
  
• Epinephrine (EpiPen)

Overdose

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of Haldol overdose may include:

• Catatonic (unresponsive) state, coma, decreased breathing, low blood pressure, rigid muscles, sedation, tremor, weakness