Haloperidol

Products

Haloperidol is commercially available as tablets, drops (Haldol), and as a solution for injection (Haldol, Haldol decanoas). It has been approved in many countries since 1960.

Structure and properties

Haloperidol (C21H23ClFNO2, Mr = 375.9 g/mol) is a derivative of pethidine, which is itself derived from atropine. It has structural similarity to loperamide. Haloperidol exists as a white powder that is practically insoluble in water. Haloperidol decanoate is the capric acid ester of haloperidol. It is also present as a white powder that is virtually insoluble in water.

Effects

Haloperidol (ATC N05AD01) has potent central antidopaminergic and antiemetic properties. It is depressant and weakly antihistaminergic and anticholinergic.

Indications

The indications for haloperidol include:

  • Schizophrenia
  • Schizoaffective disorder
  • Delirium
  • Manic episodes or psychomotor agitation states with in type I bipolar disorder.
  • Osychomotor states of agitation in psychotic disorder.
  • Tics, Tourette’s syndrome
  • Huntington’s chorea
  • Aggression
  • Postoperative nausea and vomiting

Indications differed depending on the dosage form,

Dosage

According to the professional information. The dosage regimen depends on the indication. The tablets are taken with meals and liquid. The solution for injection is administered intramuscularly. It must not be injected intravenously.

Contraindications

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Haloperidol is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 and an inhibitor of CYP2D6, among others. Corresponding interactions are possible. Caution should be exercised with concomitant administration of drugs that prolong the QT interval. Other interactions are possible with central depressant drugs, sympathomimetics, levodopa, and lithium, among others.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include movement disorders (extrapyramidal disorders), depression, psychotic disorders, erectile dysfunction, weight gain or loss, skin rash, low blood pressure, and visual disturbances. Haloperidol may prolong the QT interval and rarely cause cardiac arrhythmias. Numerous other side effects are possible.