HALOPERIDOL

Question 1

What is the common indication for Haloperidol?

Answer 1

Prophylaxis of postoperative nausea and vomiting [in patients at moderate to high risk and when alternatives ineffective or not tolerated

Combination treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting [when alternatives ineffective or not tolerated]
for haloperidol

Nausea and vomiting in palliative care

Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder

Persistent aggression and psychotic symptoms in moderate to severe Alzheimer’s dementia and vascular dementia [when non-pharmacological treatments ineffective and there is a risk of harm to self or others]
for haloperidol

Question 2

What is the normal maintenance dose for Haloperidol?

Answer 2

The normal maintenance dose for Haloperidol ranges from 0.5 to 10 mg per day, depending on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment.

Question 3

What is the drug class of Haloperidol?

Answer 3

First generation antipsychotics

Question 4

What is the common side effect of haloperidol.

Answer 4

Depression; eye disorders; headache; hypersalivation; nausea; neuromuscular dysfunction; psychotic disorder; vision disorders; weight decreased

Question 5

What are the uncommon side effects of Haloperidol?

Answer 5

Breast abnormalities; dyspnoea; gait abnormal; hepatic disorders; hyperhidrosis; menstrual cycle irregularities; muscle complaints; musculoskeletal stiffness; oedema; photosensitivity reaction; restlessness; sexual dysfunction; skin reactions; temperature regulation disorders

Question 6

State monitoring requirements when taking haloperidol

Answer 6

prolactin concentration at the start of therapy, at 6 months, and then yearly.
Cardiovascular disease risk assessment at least once per year

Question 7

Manufacturer advises monitor electrolytes before treatment initiation and periodically during treatment. True or false?

Answer 7

True

Question 8

ECG monitoring is recommended up to 6 hours after administration of intramuscular doses for prophylaxis or treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. True/false?

Answer 8

True

Question 9

Extrapyramidal effects and withdrawal syndrome have been reported occasionally in the neonate when antipsychotic drugs are taken during the third trimester of pregnancy. Following maternal use of antipsychotic drugs in the third trimester, neonates should be monitored for symptoms including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, drowsiness, feeding problems, and respiratory distress. True/false

Answer 9

True

Question 10

photosensitisation may occur with higher dosages, patients should avoid direct sunlight. True/false

Answer 10

True

Question 11

Driving and skilled tasks
Drowsiness may affect performance of skilled tasks (e.g. driving or operating machinery), especially at start of treatment; effects of alcohol are enhanced. True/false

Answer 11

True