Haloperidol is a medication used to help manage symptoms of psychotic disorders, control tics in Tourette's Disorder, and treat severe behavior problems in children. While the exact way it works isn't fully understood, it helps balance certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood and behavior. It is usually taken as a tablet, starting at a low dose of 0.5 mg to 2 mg two to three times a day for adults, with the maximum dose potentially going up to 100 mg daily in some cases. A key warning is that it is not approved for treating elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of death. Additionally, if you are taking lithium, you should be monitored closely, as combining these medications can lead to serious side effects.
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Uses
- Psychotic disorders.
- Tics and vocal utterances of Tourette's Disorder.
- Severe behavior problems in children.
- Hyperactive children with conduct disorders.
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Dosage
Adults: 0.5 mg to 5 mg two to three times daily.
Children (3 to 12 years): 0.05 mg/kg/day to 0.15 mg/kg/day.
Start with the lowest dose and adjust gradually.
Monitor closely for effectiveness and side effects.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
Drowsinessanxietyrestlessnessheadacheconstipation
Serious
Sudden deathQT prolongationtardive dyskinesianeuroleptic malignant syndrome
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
- Risk of sudden death and heart issues.
- Potential for tardive dyskinesia with long-term use.
- Monitor for neuroleptic malignant syndrome symptoms.
- Use cautiously in patients with heart problems.
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Drug interactions
- Lithiumrisk of neurological toxicityCaution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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