Precautions and Warnings With Haloperidol

Some people who take haloperidol may develop a life-threatening condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), which can include symptoms such as a high fever, stiff muscles, and confusion. Among the conditions to let your healthcare provider know about before taking haloperidol are glaucoma, Parkinson's disease, and heart problems. Some other precautions and warnings with haloperidol include possible drug interactions, the safety of taking haloperidol while pregnant or nursing, and people who shouldn't take the drug.

 

Haloperidol: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking haloperidol (Haldol®) 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.
     
Also let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Are breastfeeding
  • Drink alcohol.
     
You should also be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Precautions and Warnings With Haloperidol Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;