Haloperidol

About haloperidol

Mental illness, particularly schizophrenia, is thought to be caused by over-activity of certain areas of the brain. Haloperidol works by blocking receptors in the brain to alter the activity in these areas.
In mental and behavioural disorders, haloperidol helps to improve disturbed thoughts and behaviour and produces a calming effect in patients with aggression and agitation. It also acts on receptors in the brain that control nausea and vomiting and is therefore sometimes used to provide relief from these symptoms.

Before taking haloperidol

Before taking haloperidol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you suffer from any heart problems.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney or breathing problems.
• If you suffer from Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, depression or myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you suffer from prostate problems.
• If you or any of your family have suffered from glaucoma.
• If you suffer from a condition called phaeochromocytoma (a growth affecting the adrenal glands).
• If you have ever suffered from jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), brain haemorrhage or stroke.
• If you have a known lack of calcium, potassium or magnesium in your blood.
• If you suffer from postural hypotension (dizziness when getting up from a sitting or lying position).
• If you suffer from thyroid problems.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.

How to take haloperidol

• Take haloperidol exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take haloperidol at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• You may have to take haloperidol for several weeks before you feel the full effect.
• Do not stop taking haloperidol without first speaking with your doctor. Your doctor will probably want to reduce the dose you are taking gradually, as stopping treatment suddenly can cause problems.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
• Before having any surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon that you are taking haloperidol.

Can haloperidol cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store haloperidol

• Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines