Antipsychotic Pharmacology Antipsychotic Haloperidol is a butyropherone derivative with antipsychotic properties that has been considered particularly effective in the management of hyperactivity, agitation, and mania. It may also exhibit hypothermic and anorexiant effects and potentiate the action of barbiturates, general anesthetics, and other CNS depressant drugs. The mechanism of action of haloperidol has not been entirely elucidated, but has been attributed to the inhibition of the transport mechanism of cerebral monoamines, particularly by blocking the impulse transmission in dopaminergic neurons. Indications Haloperidol is indicated in the management of manifestations of acute and chronic psychosis, including schizophrenia and manic states. It may also be of value in the management of aggressive and agitated behavior in patients with chronic brain syndrome and mental retardation and in the symptomatic control of Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome.
Haloperidol is excreted in breast milk.
Headache, vertigo and cerebral seizures have also been reported. The extrapyramidal reactions are usually dose related in occurrence and severity and, as a rule, tend to subside when the dose is reduced or the drug is temporarily discontinued. However, considerable interpatient variability exists, and, although some individuals may tolerate higher than average doses of haloperidol, severe extrapyramidal reactions, necessitating discontinuation of the drug, may occur at relatively low doses. Administration of an antiparkinson agent is usually, but not always, effective in preventing or reversing neuromuscular reactions associated with haloperidol. As with all antipsychotic agents, tardive dyskinesia may appear in some patients on long-term therapy or may appear after drug therapy has been discontinued.