Haloperidol

What is haloperidol?

Haloperidol, available under brand names like Haldol and Serenace, is a prescription-only antipsychotic medicine. It is used to treat a range of mental health and neurological conditions, coming in tablet, liquid, and injectable forms[1]. 

What is haloperidol used for?

Haloperidol is used to treat many different conditions, including[1]: 

• Schizophrenia 

• Mania in bipolar disorder 

• Severe confusion, agitation, or anxiety, especially in palliative care 

• General anxiety or agitation 

• Delirium and confusion, including in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease when other treatments have failed 

• Tourette’s syndrome (severe tics) 

• Nausea and vomiting, especially after surgery or in end-of-life care 

How does haloperidol work?

Haloperidol fundamentally works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, a chemical that helps transmit signals between nerve cells. By reducing dopamine activity, haloperidol helps to manage symptoms such as hallucinations, agitation, and nausea[1]. 

Who can take haloperidol?

Haloperidol can be taken by adults. In some cases, it may also be taken by children under specialist care. However, it may not be suitable for people who have Parkinson’s disease, heart rhythm problems, a history of strokes, a heart condition called long QT syndrome, severe heart failure, or had any type of heart attack in the last two months. It may also not be suitable for people who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding[1]. 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

How do you take haloperidol?

Haloperidol can be taken as tablets or liquid, swallowed with water, with or without food. It can also be administered as an injection by a healthcare professional, usually in a hospital setting. You should follow your doctor or pharmacist’s instructions carefully to ensure the safe taking of your haloperidol prescription[1]. 

What is the typical dosage of haloperidol?

The dose of haloperidol you’re given will depend on the condition being treated. Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it until your symptoms are under control or you reach a dose you can tolerate. Your age can also affect how much you are prescribed. 

Haloperidol is usually taken either once a day or split into smaller doses throughout the day to help reduce side effects. Your doctor will explain exactly when and how to take it, and it’s important to follow their instructions carefully[1]. 

Can you stop taking haloperidol suddenly?

You should not stop taking haloperidol suddenly. This is because stopping it too quickly may cause withdrawal symptoms or even potentially make your condition worse. Instead, your doctor or pharmacist can help you reduce the dose gradually if needed[1]. 

What should you do if you take too much haloperidol?

Taking too much haloperidol can be dangerous, causing symptoms like severe drowsiness, muscle stiffness, irregular heartbeat, and low blood pressure. You should call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you think you have taken too much haloperidol[1]. 

What should you do if you forget a dose of haloperidol?

If you forget to take a dose of haloperidol, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual. Do not take two doses of haloperidol at the same time to make up for a missed one – this can be dangerous[1]. 

What medicines should you avoid while taking haloperidol?

Haloperidol has the potential to interact with other medications and substances, including[1]: 

• Other antipsychotics 

• Certain antidepressants 

• Medicines that affect heart rhythm, such as amiodarone 

• Alcohol, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects 

You should also tell your doctor if you are also taking medicines for erectile dysfunction, or anything that makes your sleepy, drowsy or gives you a dry mouth[1]. 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of haloperidol?

Common yet mild side effects of haloperidol include drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia having a dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. These often pass and get better over time[1]. 

Alternatively, if you experience more serious side effects, they may require urgent medical attention. These include[1]: 

• Muscle stiffness or tremors 

• Uncontrollable movements (tardive dyskinesia) in face, mouth, and tongue 

• Restlessness of arms and legs 

• Irregular heartbeat 

• Severe constipation 

• Sudden infection 

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (symptoms include fever, confusion, and muscle rigidity) 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]: 

• Difficulty breathing 

• Tightness in throat and chest 

• Swelling of the tongue or throat 

• Feeling faint or dizzy 

• Blue/grey skin or lips 

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about haloperidol

How long does haloperidol take to work? 

Haloperidol generally starts working within one to two hours – but the full effects may take several weeks to materialise[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking haloperidol? 

It’s best to avoid alcohol while you take haloperidol, as it can increase the risk of drowsiness and other unpleasant side effects[1]. 

Can I drive or operate machinery while taking haloperidol? 

You should avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how haloperidol affects you. It can cause drowsiness and dizziness in some people, potentially endangering you or others[1]. 

Is haloperidol addictive? 

Haloperidol is not addictive. Stopping it suddenly, though, can cause withdrawal symptoms, so you should contact your doctor or pharmacist about doing so safely[1]. 

Can I take haloperidol during pregnancy? 

You will generally only be prescribed haloperidol during pregnancy if your doctor thinks it is necessary. The risks and benefits need to be carefully considered – so this decision will be made on a case-by-case basis[1]. 

What happens if I start or stop smoking while taking haloperidol? 

Smoking can affect how your body processes haloperidol. You should tell your doctor or pharmacist if you take haloperidol and also start or stop smoking as your dose may need adjusting[1]. 

Can I take haloperidol with antidepressants? 

Some antidepressants are safe to take with haloperidol, while others are not. You should tell your medical professional about all other medications you take to ensure the safest prescription[1]. 

Does haloperidol affect weight? 

Haloperidol can cause weight gain in some people. If this is persistent, unexplained, or notable, you can speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice[1]. 

Can children take haloperidol? 

Children may sometimes be prescribed haloperidol under specialist supervision[1]. 

What monitoring is needed while taking haloperidol? 

When you take haloperidol, you may need regular checks for heart rhythm, movement disorders, and mental health symptoms. This is to ensure the efficacy of the medication and your ongoing well-being[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to haloperidol, visit their website.