Haldol Safety

Haldol^® (haloperidol) is an antipsychotic medication used for treating various conditions. In order to help minimize risks, it is important that you review the safety information for Haldol with your healthcare provider before you start taking the drug.

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Haldol. Some of the most common side effects that have been reported with this medication include blurred vision, drowsiness, and headaches. Although most side effects of Haldol are minor and do not require medical attention, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience anxiety or depression, muscle tension, or unexplained swelling.

Most people tolerate this drug well. However, people with certain existing medical conditions may not be able to take Haldol safely. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking the medicine if you have:

Parkinson's disease
Heart problems, including an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
An electrolyte imbalance, especially low potassium in your blood (hypokalemia)
Seizures or epilepsy
An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
Glaucoma
Bipolar disorder
An enlarged prostate (also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH)
Difficulty passing urine
Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.

(Click Haldol Side Effects and Haldol Warnings and Precautions for more safety information on Haldol, including details on other possible side effects and warnings on who should not use this particular medicine.)