Haloperidol
Generic Details
Generic Name
Haloperidol
Other Names
- Haldol
- Serenace
Drug Class
- Antipsychotic
Chemical Formula
C21H23ClFNO2
Molecular Weight
375.86 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the brain
Indications
- Schizophrenia
- Acute psychosis
- Tourette syndrome
- Mania
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Solution
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- 1-2 mg 2-3 times per day, up to 100 mg/day
Pediatric Dosage
- Consult healthcare provider for appropriate dosing in children
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower doses may be required due to decreased metabolism
Side Effects
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)
- Sedation
- Hypotension
- Weight gain
- Hyperprolactinemia
Contraindications
- Severe central nervous system depression
- Coma
- Parkinson's disease
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Considered compatible with breastfeeding by some sources
Drug Interactions
- Lithium
- Dopamine agonists
- Alcohol
Overdose Symptoms
- Seizures
- Dystonia
- Coma
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, manage symptoms supportively
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed orally
- Distribution: Highly protein-bound, crosses the blood-brain barrier
- Metabolism: Extensively hepatic
- Excretion: Mainly excreted in the urine
Precautions
- Caution in elderly patients
- Monitor for signs of EPS
Warnings
- May increase risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis
- Prolonged QT interval
Others
- Haloperidol decanoate is a long-acting injectable form