Haloperidol Decanoate

Introduction To Haloperidol Decanoate

Haloperidol Decanoate is used in the treatment of schizophrenia. It is also used to treat psychosis, mania, severe behavior problems, and Tourette syndrome (chronic multiple motor and vocal problems and involuntary responses) in adults and children.

Haloperidol Decanoate works by blocking the action of dopamine, a chemical messenger in the brain that affects thoughts and mood. It is given under the supervision of a healthcare professional only. Use it at the same time each day as this helps to maintain a consistent level of medicine in the body. Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor and if you have missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not stop suddenly without talking to the doctor, as it may worsen your symptoms. The doctor may check heart function and level of electrolytes such as sodium and magnesium before you start treatment with this medicine and regularly thereafter. Take plenty of fluids while taking this medicine as it may also cause dehydration.

Some common side effects of this medicine include injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness), dryness in the mouth, urinary retention, constipation, and tremor. Initially, this medicine may cause a sudden drop in blood pressure when you change positions, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down. It also causes dizziness and sleepiness, do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how this medicine affects you. Additionally, this medicine can lead to weight gain, eat a healthy balanced diet, and exercise regularly.

Uses of Haloperidol Decanoate

  • Schizophrenia

Benefits of Haloperidol Decanoate

Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder in which a person’s thinking ability, feelings and behavior become abnormal. Haloperidol Decanoate helps restore the chemical imbalances in the brain that are responsible for such changes. It improves thoughts, behavior and enhances the quality of life.

Side effects of Haloperidol Decanoate

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Seradol

  • Abnormality of voluntary movements
  • Constipation
  • Dryness in mouth
  • Increased prolactin level in blood
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing)
  • Sleepiness
  • Tremors
  • Urinary retention
  • Weight gain

How to use Haloperidol Decanoate

Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.

How Haloperidol Decanoate works

Haloperidol Decanoate is a typical antipsychotic. It works by blocking the action of dopamine, a chemical messenger in the brain that affects thoughts and mood.

Quick tips

  • Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as Haloperidol Decanoate may cause dizziness and sleepiness.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine as it can cause increased dizziness.
  • It may affect how your body regulates your temperature. Avoid getting dehydrated and drink plenty of fluids.
  • Inform your doctor if you experience any abnormal movements or have difficulty controlling movements.
  • Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms such as high fever, sweating, muscle stiffness, and faster breathing. These may be due to a rare side effect known as the neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
  • Your doctor may check your heart function and level of electrolytes such as sodium and magnesium before you start treatment with this medicine and regularly thereafter.
  • Do not stop taking Haloperidol Decanoate without talking to your doctor first as it may cause worsening of symptoms.

Safety Advice

sdsPregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Haloperidol Decanoate if I’m pregnant?

Haloperidol Decanoate may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.

sdsBreastfeedingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Haloperidol Decanoate if I’m breastfeeding?

Haloperidol Decanoate is probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby.

sdsAlcoholUNSAFE

Is drinking alcohol while taking Haloperidol Decanoate safe?

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Haloperidol Decanoate.

sdsDrivingUNSAFE

Can I drive after taking Haloperidol Decanoate?

Haloperidol Decanoate may cause side effects which could affect your ability to drive.

sdsKidneyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Haloperidol Decanoate if I have/had kidney diseases?

There is limited information available on the use of Haloperidol Decanoate in patients with kidney disease. Please consult your doctor.

sdsLiverCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Haloperidol Decanoate if I have/had liver diseases?

There is limited information available on the use of Haloperidol Decanoate in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.

References

Written By:

Dr Advikka Ridhy

Dr Advikka Ridhy

MBBS

RMO, Aster MIMS

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