Haldol Alternatives

Although Haldol is generally effective at treating the symptoms of psychotic disorders and behavior problems, it is possible that the medicine may not work well enough to control a person's symptoms, or that bothersome side effects may occur. In these situations, a healthcare provider may recommend an alternative to Haldol. Among these possible Haldol alternatives are therapy and other medications (such as typical or atypical antipsychotic medications).

 

An Overview of Haldol Alternatives

Part of a class of drugs known as "typical antipsychotics," Haldol® (haloperidol) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat the following conditions:
 
  • Psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia
  • Tics (including vocal tics) associated with Tourette syndrome
  • Severe behavior problems in children
  • Severe attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children (for short-term use only).
     
Haldol is part of a group of typical antipsychotics or first-generation antipsychotics. For most people, Haldol is effective at treating the symptoms of these conditions. Most people also tolerate the medication well. However, as with all medicines, it is possible that side effects will occur during treatment with Haldol. Also, in some situations, the medicine may not adequately control a person's symptoms. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to Haldol, including:
 
  • Therapy
  • Other medications.
 

Therapy as a Haldol Alternative

It is unlikely that therapy alone can replace the need for medication in people who have psychotic or behavior disorders severe enough to require Haldol treatment. However, therapy can be an important part of a well-rounded treatment plan. Numerous studies have found that psychosocial treatments as part of an overall treatment plan can be very helpful. This therapy helps patients who are already stabilized on antipsychotic medication deal with certain aspects of psychotic or behavior disorders, such as difficulty with:
 
  • Communication
  • Motivation
  • Self-care
  • Work
  • Establishing and maintaining relationships with others.
 
(Haldol Alternatives Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;