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Haloperidol

Antipsychotic Agent

Brand names:

Haldol Decanoate®

Other names:

Haloperidol Lactate

Often used for:

Intensive care unit (ICU) associated delirium, Severe behavioral problems, Tourette syndrome, and Other mental health conditions

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What is haloperidol?

Haloperidol is a type of first generation antipsychotic medicine. It works by changing the activity of certain natural chemicals in the brain to regulate mood and behavior.

This medicine may be given in the clinic, hospital, or at home. 

Brain

May be given as a shot into a muscle (intramuscular injection)

 
Brain

May be given as a shot into a vein (intravenous injection)

 
Brain

May be given as a tablet by mouth

 
Brain

May be given as a liquid by mouth

 
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Possible side effects

  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Irritation or pain at the injection site (when given as a shot)
  • Feeling restless
  • Dizziness
  • Weight gain
  • Tremors (shaking of the body)
  • Involuntary muscle movements in the body or face
  • Stiff muscles
  • Fast or abnormal heartbeat
  • Changes to hormone levels like prolactin, which may cause changes to breasts (even in males) or the menstrual cycle (periods) 

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take haloperidol will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your care provider or pharmacist.

  • Watch for changes in your child’s mood or mental health, such as worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, irritability, panic attacks, or trouble sleeping. 
  • Seek medical help right away if your child has any suicidal thoughts or actions or signs of self-harm. 
  • Stopping this medicine too fast can result in unwanted side effects. Your care team will monitor and plan if the medicine must be stopped.   
  • This medicine may make your child dizzy or drowsy. Do not let your child do anything that could be dangerous, such as drive a car or ride a bike, until you see how this medicine affects them.
  • Your care team may require additional visits and lab checks to monitor side effects.
  • Haloperidol can affect your child’s ability to get pregnant or father a child. Talk to your care provider about the risk of fertility problems and options for protecting fertility.
  • It is important that patients tell the care team if they are sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.  

Haloperidol at home:

  • This medicine can be taken with or without food. Taking the medicine with meals may lessen stomach problems.
  • Tablet: Swallow tablet whole. Do not crush or chew before swallowing.
  • Liquid: Use the measuring device that comes with the medicine. Mix with 2 ounces of water or an acidic beverage, such as orange juice. Do not mix with tea or coffee. This medicine may cause skin irritation if it comes into contact with the skin.
  • In case of a missed dose, give the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not give 2 doses at the same time.
  • Store at room temperature and protect from light. Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.

Learn more about haloperidol

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: July 2025