WARNING

According to studies, older adults who use antipsychotics, such as haloperidol, a medication for mental illness, have a higher risk of dying while undergoing treatment. Dementia is a brain disorder that affects an individual’s memory, ability to think clearly, communicate, and perform daily tasks.

The treatment of behavioral issues in dementia-affected older individuals with haloperidol is not permitted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). If you, a loved one, or a person you care for suffers from dementia and is taking haloperidol, speak with the doctor who recommended it

Why is this medication prescribed?

Haldol, also known by its generic name haloperidol, is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called antipsychotics. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of certain mental and mood disorders, particularly schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Here are some reasons why Haldol may be prescribed:

• Schizophrenia: Haldol is commonly used to manage the symptoms of schizophrenia, a chronic mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and a loss of contact with reality. It helps reduce the severity of hallucinations and delusions and improves overall mental stability.
• Other Psychotic Disorders: Haldol may also be prescribed for other psychotic disorders, such as schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder, and delusional disorder, to alleviate symptoms and promote stability.
• Severe Agitation: In certain situations, Haldol can be used to manage severe agitation or aggression in individuals who are experiencing an acute psychotic episode or other psychiatric conditions.
• Tourette Syndrome: Haldol may be prescribed for the treatment of Tourette syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations known as tics. It helps reduce the frequency and severity of tics in some individuals.
• Nausea and Vomiting: In some cases, Haldol can be prescribed as an antiemetic to control severe nausea and vomiting, particularly when other treatments have been ineffective.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines regarding the use of Haldol:

• Dosage: The dosage of Haldol will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your condition and response to the medication. It is typically started at a low dose and gradually increased if necessary.
• Administration: Haldol is available in various forms, including tablets, oral liquid, and injection. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on the specific form and route of administration. If you are taking the tablet form, swallow it whole with water, without crushing or chewing it.
• Timing: Take Haldol as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once or twice a day. If you are taking multiple doses, try to take them at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system.
• Duration of treatment: The duration of Haldol treatment can vary depending on the condition being treated. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Do not discontinue or adjust the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Precautions: Haldol may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so it is important to avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions you have, as they may interact with Haldol.

Other uses for this medicine

While Haldol (haloperidol) is primarily used to treat mental disorders such as schizophrenia and acute psychosis, it may also be prescribed for other conditions under certain circumstances. However, it’s important to note that the off-label use of any medication should only be done under the guidance and prescription of a qualified healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Haldol, also known as haloperidol, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat certain mental and mood disorders. When taking Haldol, it’s important to follow specific precautions to ensure your safety and maximize the effectiveness of the medication. Here are some special precautions you should consider:

• Take Haldol as prescribed: Follow your doctor’s instructions and take the medication exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Inform your doctor about your medical history: Before starting Haldol, provide your doctor with a comprehensive medical history, including any allergies, liver or kidney problems, heart conditions, seizures, or other medical conditions you may have. This information helps your doctor determine the appropriate dosage and monitor your response to the medication.
• Avoid alcohol and other sedatives: Alcohol and sedatives can enhance the sedative effects of Haldol and increase the risk of side effects. It’s advisable to avoid alcoholic beverages and consult your doctor before taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
• Be cautious while driving or operating machinery: Haldol may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision, which can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. If you experience these side effects, avoid such activities until you know how Haldol affects you.
• Stay hydrated: Haldol can disrupt the body’s temperature regulation mechanism, increasing the risk of overheating. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather or during intense physical activity, to prevent dehydration and maintain normal body temperature.
• Attend regular check-ups: Regularly visit your healthcare provider for follow-up appointments and monitoring. They will assess your progress, evaluate any side effects, and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan if needed.
• Inform healthcare providers about Haldol use: If you undergo any medical procedures or surgeries or need emergency medical care, inform the healthcare professionals involved that you are taking Haldol. The medication may interact with certain anesthetics and other drugs, requiring special considerations.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Haldol with your doctor. The medication may have potential risks for the fetus or nursing baby, and your healthcare provider can guide you on the best course of action.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Haldol (haloperidol), it is generally recommended to take this medication with food or milk to help minimize stomach upset. However, specific dietary restrictions are not typically associated with Haldol use. It’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor or pharmacist about any concerns or questions you may have regarding your diet while taking Haldol.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Haldol, it’s best to take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, you should skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. It’s important not to take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects. If you’re unsure about what to do, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Haldol, also known as haloperidol, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Like any medication, it can cause certain side effects. Here are some common side effects associated with Haldol:

• Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS): These are movement disorders that may include muscle stiffness, tremors, restlessness, and uncontrollable movements, such as tardive dyskinesia. These symptoms can occur especially at higher doses or with long-term use.
• Sedation: Haldol may cause drowsiness or sedation, which can affect your ability to concentrate or operate machinery.
• Orthostatic hypotension: This refers to a drop in blood pressure upon standing up, which can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Dry mouth: Haldol may decrease the production of saliva, resulting in a dry mouth.
• Blurred vision: Some individuals may experience temporary vision changes or blurred vision while taking Haldol.
• Constipation: Haldol can lead to reduced bowel movements and constipation.
• Weight gain: Some individuals may experience weight gain while taking Haldol, potentially due to changes in appetite or metabolism.
• Sexual side effects: Haldol may cause sexual dysfunction, such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving orgasm.
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): Although rare, Haldol can potentially lead to a severe condition known as NMS, characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. NMS requires immediate medical attention.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Haldol is a medication that contains the active ingredient haloperidol and is primarily used to treat certain mental and mood disorders, including schizophrenia. When handling Haldol, it is essential to follow specific guidelines regarding its storage and disposal to ensure safety. Here’s what you should know:

Storage of Haldol:

• Store Haldol at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and light.
• Keep the medication out of reach and sight of children and pets.
• Do not store Haldol in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it can be exposed to moisture.

Disposal of Haldol:

• Dispose of any unused or expired Haldol properly.
• Do not flush the medication down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider about available medication take-back programs in your area.
• If no specific disposal instructions are provided, you can mix the medication with an undesirable substance like dirt or coffee grounds in a sealable bag before throwing it in the trash. Ensure that the bag is properly sealed to prevent accidental exposure.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Call your local emergency hotline or go to the nearest emergency room. It is helpful to provide the healthcare professionals with the following information:

• The dosage and quantity of Haldol taken (if known).
• The time of ingestion.
• The individual’s age, weight, and overall health condition.
• Any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Haldol may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Do not abruptly stop taking Haldol without consulting your healthcare provider, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms or a recurrence of your condition.
• Inform your doctor about any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, that you are taking, as they may interact with Haldol.
• Haldol may increase the risk of certain side effects, such as movement disorders or irregular heart rhythms. Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider is important.
• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Haldol with your doctor.

Remember, this information is not exhaustive, and it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific guidance and advice regarding the storage, disposal, and usage of Haldol.