Back Medication Explained



Haloperidol

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

 

Popular brand names:

Serenace

Drug group:

Butyrophenone antipsychotic drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

 

What does it do?

Haloperidol is an antipsychotic drug used in the treatment of various conditions:

  • Schizophrenia and other psychoses - helps to reduce agitation and violent behaviour, no longer recommended for first-line treatment
  • Mania and severe anxiety - short term treatment
  • Used in the control of Tourette’s syndrome and to treat intractable hiccups

 

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

  • Usually taken in 2–4 divided doses
  • Mental illness: initially 3–10mg daily, up to a maximum of 30mg daily
  • Severe anxiety: 1mg daily



How quickly will it start to work?

2–3 hours by mouth; 20–30 minutes by injection 
           

How long will the effects last?

6–24 hours by mouth; 2–4 hours by injection; 4 weeks by depot  

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor 
                              
 

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Use of this drug for more than a few months may lead to tardive dyskinesia (abnormal, involuntary movements of the eyes, face, and tongue).

                                                                         

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

  • More common: minor anticholinergic symptoms (dry mouth, blurred vision), drowsiness, lethargy, sexual dysfunction, breathlessness
  • Less common: parkinsonism (abnormal movements of the face and limb stiffness - may be controlled by adjusting the dose), jaundice
  • Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: high fever, confusion

 

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

  • Certain health problems: liver/kidney/heart/circulation problems, epilepsy/seizures, Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders
  • Other medicines: sedatives, rifampicin, anticonvulsants, lithium, methyldopa, anticholinergic drugs
  • Pregnancy and breast-feeding: occasionally used under psychiatric supervision
  • Children: Rarely required, reduced dose necessary
  • Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
  • Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug may cause drowsiness and slowed reactions
  • Alcohol: Avoid, alcohol may increase the sedative effect of this drug


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