Brand Name: Haldol (available in generic)

Manufacturer: Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical

Description: Major tranquilizer.  Mechanism of action is unknown.  It is a butyroghenone that problable exerts it's antipsychotic effects by blocking post synaptic dopamine receptors in the brain.

Indications and Use: For the management of the manifestations of psychotic disorders. Also indicated for the treatment of tics and vocal utterances of Tourette's Disorder.

Contraindications, Warnings, and Precautions: The potentially fatal symptom of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) has been reported in association with this class of drugs. Signs of NMS include: muscle rigidity, altered mental status, high fever, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, and cardiac dysrhythmia. Tardive dyskinesia is a potentially irreversible, involuntary movement that may develop. The highest prevalence of tardive dyskinesia is in the elderly, particularly women. This medication has central nervous system effects; therefore, alcohol should be avoided. Haldol should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit exceeds the risk to the fetus. When receiving both Haldol and lithium, the patient should be monitored very closely for the signs of encephalopathic syndrome (weakness, lethargy, fever, tremors, confusion, extrapyramidal effects, leukocytosis, elevated serum enzymes). This syndrome can lead to irreversible brain damage. Haldol may lower the seizure threshold. Haldol should be used carefully in patients with severe heart disorders because of the possibility of transient hypotension and/or precipitation of anginal pain.

Adverse Reactions: Possible side effects include extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, blurred vision, and sedation. Less common side effects include cardiovascular effects, urine retention and menstrual irregularities.

Dosing Range: Dosing will depend on age, symptoms and severity. Typical doses range from 0.5mg to 20mg per day. Some individuals may require higher doses.

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© 2000 Red Oak Psychiatry Associates, P.A.    Updated 11/26/2007