Haldol (Haloperidol Decanoate)
Product names
Haldol 50mg/ml injection
Haldol concentrate 100mg/ml injection
Given via injection (IMI), slow and sustained release, metabolised in liver, excreted in faeces and urine, crosses BBB and is known to cross the placenta and into breast milk
Slightly amber, slightly viscous solution, and is pre filled in 1mL amber glass ampules
Indications
Maintenance therapy of psychoses in adults
Use particularly for patients that require prolonged parenteral neuroleptic therapy (neuroleptic = antipsychotics)
Should be administered in to the gluteal region (alternate each time)
21 gauge recommended
Should not exceed 3ml at the injection site
Recommended interval is 4 weeks between doses
Patients must previously have been stabilised on oral haloperidol before going to haldol
Starting dose is based on the patient's condition, and response to the oral haloperidol; patients must always be on the lowest effective dose possible
Contraindications
Parkinsons
Lewy body dementia
patients in comatose states
in the presence of CNS depressants (ie alcohol)
sensitivities
Adverse effects
Tardive dyskinesia (potentially irreversible involuntary movements - is known to occur in patients on neuroleptics)
NMS [neuroleptic malignant syndrome]- high temp and fevers, altered mental status, Catatonic states, irregular pulse and/or blood pressure
Extrapyramidal symptoms- tremor, rigidity, hyper salivation, bradykinesia, akathisia (unable to stay still), and dystonia
seizures
may effect the endocrine system and effect the reproductive organs (via hyperprolactinaemia)
VTE
Mood swings (ie bipolar patient in mania may rapidly swing to depression)
Should not be used alone as depression tx
Anticoagulants / bleeding disorders