Generic Haloperidol

Common use

Haloperidol is prescribed to treat schizophrenia, acute psychotic episodes, and severe behavioral disturbances. It is also used to manage Tourette’s syndrome, severe agitation, and, in some cases, nausea and vomiting. The medication works by blocking dopamine receptors to reduce symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and agitation.

Dosage and direction

Haloperidol is taken orally as tablets or liquid, or administered by injection, depending on the patient’s condition. Dosage varies based on age, diagnosis, and response to treatment. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Do not adjust the dose without medical supervision.

Precautions

Before using haloperidol, inform your doctor if you have heart problems, electrolyte imbalances, seizures, Parkinson’s disease, liver disease, thyroid disorders, or a history of depression. The drug may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or movement disorders. Avoid alcohol and activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you.

Contraindications

Haloperidol is contraindicated in patients with severe central nervous system depression, coma, or known hypersensitivity to haloperidol or other butyrophenone derivatives. It should not be used in patients with Parkinson’s disease unless strictly necessary.

Possible side effect

Common side effects include drowsiness, restlessness, insomnia, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. Serious side effects may include tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, severe muscle stiffness, fast or irregular heartbeat, seizures, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if severe symptoms occur.

Drug interaction

Haloperidol may interact with antidepressants, antihistamines, anticholinergics, blood pressure medications, antiepileptic drugs, sedatives, and drugs that affect heart rhythm. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose — do not double up.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness, low blood pressure, muscle rigidity, tremors, irregular heartbeat, seizures, or coma. Seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

Storage

Store at room temperature, protected from heat, moisture, and light. Keep in the original container and out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)