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Medication Information:
Haloperidol (generic) - Haldol
(brand)
Manufacturer: Ortho-McNeiI Pharmaceutical, SoloPak,
Teva and others
Classification: Antipsychotic
Common Usage: For treating psychotic disorders; for the
control of tics and vocal utterances of Tourette's disorder in
children and adults; for control of movements in Huntington's
chorea; for control of vomiting in patients receiving chemotherapy;
for the treatment of severe behavior problems in children who are
combative or in hyperactive children with conduct
disorders.
Common
Major Side Effects: Slowed movements; rigidity; tremor;
blank expression (pseudoparkinsonism); muscle spasms (dystonia);
involuntary muscle movements, particularly around the face (tardive
dyskinesia); restlessness or pacing (akathisia); mild sedation;
breast tenderness, swelling or discharge; dizziness or unsteadiness
on standing; increased variability of body temperature.
Interactions with Other Medications: Alcohol or drugs that
cause sedation should be used with caution with haloperidol because
of increased sedation. Haloperidol should not be used with
lithium (Eskalith) without careful monitoring and avoidance of
dehydration. Carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenobarbital and
smoking can decrease the blood level of haloperidol.
Common
Dosages: The dose of haloperidol is highly variable and
must be carefully individualized. For non-agitated psychotic
disorders, four to six mg/day is a reasonable starting dose, given
two to three times daily for the first week. Higher doses and the
short-acting injection form of the drug are useful for agitated or
combative patients, but should be reduced as soon as possible.
After the first week, most people can take their entire daily dose
of haloperidol at bedtime. The dose should be increased at weekly
intervals if needed. The usual dosage range is five to 40 mg/day.
Blood levels are frequently helpful and should usually be in the
range of three to 15 ng/mL when taken 12 hours after the dose. Many
patients benefit by having reduced side effects and improved
response through use of the long-acting injection haloperidol
decanoate. In children, the elderly or demented patients, the dose
should be much lower initially until the patient's response can be
determined.
Idendtification: Haloperidol tablets and injectables are
manufactured by numerous drug companies in various
forms.
Storage: Store below 86 degrees in a tightly closed,
light-and moisture-resistant container, out of direct sunlight. Do
not store in the bathroom or other areas that are warm and humid-
Keep out of the reach of children.
Ediited by
Stephen R. Saklad, Pharm.D.
A SERVICE
OF ….Psychopharmacology Update
Note: These guidelines are for general information only. For more
specific information consult your physician or
pharmacist.
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