Haldol® (
haloperidol) is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as
atypical antipsychotics. Although most people tolerate this medication well, some people may experience side effects while taking it. Risks associated with the use of this drug should be reviewed with your healthcare provider before treatment begins.
In clinical studies, some of the most common side effects that were seen with Haldol included
constipation or
diarrhea, nausea,
insomnia, and dry mouth. Most side effects of Haldol are minor and, in most cases, either do not require medical attention or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
However, there are other potentially serious problems that may occur with Haldol. There have been reports of sudden death in people taking Haldol, most likely due to a dangerous irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia) called QT prolongation. Haldol can also cause
tardive dyskinesia (a condition involving unusual, uncontrollable body or face movements) and a life-threatening condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
(Click Haldol Side Effects and Haldol Warnings and Precautions for more information about the potential risks associated with Haldol, including a list of potentially serious side effects that should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.)
