Haldol (Haloperidol)

Description

Haldol belongs to a family of medications that are known as antipsychotics. Its main component is haloperidol.

 

Uses

 

Haldol is an antipsychotic agent that is used to treat mental disorders. Schizophrenia is characterized by a difficulty in distinguishing certain aspects of reality. Haldol helps to relieve this symptom. It also helps to reduce the severity of tics and repetitive behavior in individuals diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome. It also aids in helping judgment and more controlled thinking in people with psychiatric or mental disorders. This medication works by balancing the neurotransmitters in the brain.

 

Contact your doctor to find out what other benefits this medication may have for you.

 

Dosage

 

You should always follow the prescription that has been provided to you by your physician. You should avoid taking Haldol in an amount that is smaller or larger than you have been directed.

 

This medication should be consumed orally.

 

The recommended dosage for individuals with psychiatric disorders is between 1mg and 30 mg a day. This can be divided between two to three doses a day.

 

The recommended dose for those with Tourette’s syndrome is between 3 mg and 5 mg of Haldol a day. This can be divided between two or three doses a day.

 

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next scheduled dose is due soon, do not take the missed dose. You should not take two doses together.

 

In the event of an overdose, contact your local medical emergency services immediately.

 

Side Effects

 

The most common adverse reactions that may be experienced when taking Haldol are:

 

 Problems with speaking
 Difficulty swallowing
 Incapable of moving eyes
 Decrease in balance and coordination
 Lack of expression on face
 Contractions of neck and back muscles
 Feeling of restlessness
 Waddling walk
 Difficulty moving arms and legs
 Shivering of hands
 Contortions of the body
 Lack of strength in limbs

 

The less common side effects that may be experienced when taking this medication are:

 

 Reduced thirstiness
 Problems with urinating
 Lightheadedness
 Loss of consciousness
 Auditory or visual hallucinations
 Blowing of cheeks
 Irritation of the skin
 Difficulty controlling movements of limbs

 

In the event that you experience any of these adverse effects, call your physician immediately.

 

Contraindications

 

 Inform your doctor if you are pregnant and have been prescribed this medication. Ask your doctor before you begin breastfeeding your child.

 

 Do not take this medication if you have experienced an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients in Haldol.

 

 Do not take this medication if you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or if you have a compromised central nervous system.

 

 Do not take Haldol if your neutrophil (white blood cell) count is extremely low in number. Inform your doctor if you are suffering from any blood disorders or any problems with your circulatory system.

 

 Inform your doctor if you have ever been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

 

 Tell your doctor if you are at risk of developing cancer or have been previously diagnosed with cancer.

 

 Inform your physician of any medications, prescribed or over the counter, which you may be taking. Also tell your physician of any herbal supplements you may be taking.