Haldol® (
haloperidol) is an
atypical antipsychotic that is available by prescription only. In order to help ensure the safe use of this drug, dangers associated with the medication should be reviewed with your healthcare provider before treatment begins.
There have been reports of sudden death in people taking Haldol, most likely due to a dangerous irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia) called QT prolongation. This problem is more likely in people with low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalemia) or other electrolyte imbalances. There have also been cases of pneumonia (some of which have proven fatal), possibly due to Haldol.
Some of the more common (and often mild) side effects that have been reported with Haldol include
headaches,
insomnia, restlessness, and an increased sex drive. In most cases, these side effects either do not require medical attention or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
