Haloperidol (Haldol) #

Question 1

Class / Action

Answer 1

Tranquilizer Anti-psychotic / Controls aggression & activity in psychotic pts by blocking dopamine receptors & suppresses the cerebral cortex, limbic, and an anti-cholinergic blocking component if present. It also exhibits strong alpha-adrenergic blocking effects.

Question 2

Onset / Duration

Answer 2

ONSET: 10min IV (Use ONLY if Emergent); 15-60min IM
DURATION: 12-24hrs

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

1. Acute psychotic episode
2. Control movements and outbursts related to Tourette’s syndrome
3. Excited delirium

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

1. CNS depression or Coma or suspected brain damage
2. Hypersensitivity to Haloperidol
3. Last 3 months of pregnancy
4. Alcohol or barbiturate withdrawals
5. Parkinson’s disease

Question 5

Precautions

Answer 5

Potentiates other CNS depressants

Question 6

Dosage / Administration

Answer 6

Adult: 2-5mg IM preferred over IV use; may repeat to total 10mg
Peds: 3-12y/o 0.025mg/kg IM, MAX Single Dose 5mg; >12y/o 0.05mg/kg IM, MAX Single Dose 5mg. May repeat x1 after contracting Mary Bridge.

Question 7

Adverse Reactions

Answer 7

1. Extrapyramidal Symptoms
2. HypOtension (Orthostatic)
3. Dystonia
4. Akathisia
5. Nausea/Vomiting
6. Blurred Vision
7. Seizures
8. Respiratory Depression
9. Cardiac Arrest