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Questions and Answers
What is another common name for Haldol?
What is another common name for Haldol?
What drug class does Haldol belong to?
What drug class does Haldol belong to?
Tranquilizer, antipsychotic
What is the mechanism of action for Haldol?
What is the mechanism of action for Haldol?
Inhibits central nervous system (CNS) catecholamine receptors: strong anti-dopaminergic and weak anticholinergic.
What are the indications for using Haldol?
What are the indications for using Haldol?
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What are the contraindications for Haldol?
What are the contraindications for Haldol?
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What are the side effects of Haldol?
What are the side effects of Haldol?
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What are the drug interactions for Haldol?
What are the drug interactions for Haldol?
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What is the recommended dosage/route for adults using Haldol?
What is the recommended dosage/route for adults using Haldol?
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What is the onset and duration of Haldol?
What is the onset and duration of Haldol?
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Pregnancy safety for Haldol is well established.
Pregnancy safety for Haldol is well established.
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What special considerations should be taken when using Haldol?
What special considerations should be taken when using Haldol?
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Study Notes
Haldol Overview
- Also known as Haloperidol, a prominent antipsychotic medication used for managing acute psychotic episodes.
Drug Class
- Classified as a tranquilizer and an antipsychotic, it is primarily used to stabilize mental health conditions.
Mechanism of Action
- Works by inhibiting central nervous system (CNS) catecholamine receptors, exhibiting strong anti-dopaminergic and weak anticholinergic properties.
- Acts specifically on depress subcortical areas, the mid-brain, and the ascending reticular activating system, contributing to its calming effects.
Indications
- Indicated for use in acute psychotic episodes, facilitating rapid intervention in severe mental health crises.
Contraindications
- Not recommended for patients experiencing agitation due to shock or hypoxia and those with hypersensitivity to the drug.
Side Effects
- Common side effects include extrapyramidal symptoms, restlessness, muscle spasms, Parkinson-like symptoms, drooling, dystonia, hypotension (both orthostatic and general), nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision.
Drug Interactions
- Combining Haldol with alcohol may enhance CNS depression and hypotension.
- It antagonizes the effects of amphetamines and epinephrine, while other CNS depressants can increase its sedative effects.
Dosage and Route
- Adult dosage is 2-5 mg administered intramuscularly (IM) every 30-60 minutes until desired sedation is achieved.
- Not recommended for pediatric patients.
Onset and Duration
- The onset of action is approximately 10 minutes, with peak effects occurring between 30-45 minutes.
- The duration of effects is variable, typically lasting from 12 to 24 hours.
Pregnancy Safety
- Safety during pregnancy has not been established; caution is advised.
Special Considerations
- For hypotension resulting from Haldol administration, treatment should include fluids and norepinephrine rather than epinephrine.
- Patients on long-term therapy may be co-prescribed Cogentin (benztropine mesylate) to manage side effects related to extrapyramidal symptoms.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Haldol, also known as Haloperidol, through these informative flashcards. Explore details about its drug class, mechanism of action, and more. Perfect for students in pharmacology or medicine.
