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Haloperidol: uses, side effects & brands
Haloperidol is an older antipsychotic for psychosis and severe agitation. It belongs to the Antipsychotic (extra) group. More medicines for psychosis, severe agitation and treatment-resistant mental illness.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Antipsychotic (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Schizophrenia and other psychoses
- Severe agitation or delirium
- Tourette syndrome tics
- Nausea in palliative care
Common brand names
- India: Serenace, Haloperidol
- Worldwide: Haldol
Common side effects
- Stiffness, shaking or slowness
- Restlessness (inability to sit still)
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
Before taking it — precautions
- Tell your doctor about heart-rhythm problems, Parkinson disease or dementia
- Older people with dementia have higher risks of stroke and death
- Mention medicines that affect heart rhythm
When to see a doctor urgently
- High fever, rigid muscles and confusion (urgent)
- Fainting or palpitations (urgent)
- Muscle spasms of neck, jaw or eyes (urgent)
Frequently asked questions
Why does haloperidol cause stiffness?
It strongly blocks dopamine, which also controls movement. Your doctor may lower the dose or add a medicine to ease these effects.
What is tardive dyskinesia?
Long-term use can cause involuntary movements of the face or tongue. Tell your doctor early if you notice them.
Is there a long-acting injection?
Yes, a depot injection given every few weeks is available for people who find daily tablets hard to take.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.