Haldol Medication - Uses & Side Effects

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

Haldol Dosage

• The usual starting dosage is 1 to 6 milligrams daily.

Uses of Haldol

• Haloperidol is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders.
• Haloperidol is used to treat mood swings, hyperactivity, aggressive behavior.

Side Effects of Haldol

Before taken Haldol medicine, you should discuss the side effects with your doctor.  If any develop or change in intensity, then you should inform your doctor as soon as possible. Because 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
• Drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Skin reactions
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Weight loss.

Warnings and precautions before taking Haldol :

• After taken haloperidol, then you may feel dizziness or drowsiness. So you should not participate in any activities that require full alertness such as drive or operate heavy machinery.
• Haldol may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. When spending time in the sun, then you should use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing.
• You should not stop taking this medicine without talking with your doctor. Because your doctor may want you to reduce gradually the amount that you are taking before stopping completely.

Drug Interaction :-

If you are taking Haldol with certain other drugs, then the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. So it is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Haldol with the following:

• Antiseizure drugs
• Antispasmodic drugs
• Blood-thinning medications
• Certain antidepressants,
• Epinephrine

Overdose

After taken Haldol if you feel that overdose is suspected, then you should contact with your doctor immediately. Because it may lead to another serious effect. Symptoms of a Haldol overdose include:

• Catatonic state
• Decreased breathing
• Low blood pressure
• Rigid muscles
• Sedation
• Tremor
• Weakness

To access our dictionary, click on the first letter of the drug name:

A :: B :: C :: D :: E :: F :: G :: H :: I :: J :: K :: L :: M :: N :: O :: P :: Q :: R :: S :: T :: U :: V :: W :: X :: Y :: Z